Bit–byte relationship: Given that 1 byte = 8 bits, does a string of 64 bits correspond to 9 bytes, or is the correct conversion 8 bytes?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Converting between bits and bytes is a foundational skill in digital electronics and computer engineering. This question verifies your ability to convert a 64-bit length to its byte count accurately and to avoid overcounting due to framing or encoding misconceptions.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • 1 byte = 8 bits, by standard definition.
  • No additional parity or framing bits are included unless explicitly stated.
  • The term “string” here denotes a contiguous sequence of bits.


Concept / Approach:
The conversion formula is straightforward: bytes = bits / 8. Applying this to 64 bits yields exactly 8 bytes. Any claim of 9 bytes would imply additional overhead bits (for example, parity, start/stop in serial links), which are not part of the raw bit count unless separately specified.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Use the identity: 1 byte = 8 bits.Compute: 64 bits / 8 = 8 bytes.Confirm no overhead specified → result stands.Conclude: 64 bits correspond to 8 bytes, not 9.


Verification / Alternative check:
Consider an 8-byte register or 64-bit CPU general-purpose register; it contains 64 bits, matching 8 bytes exactly.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Correct” would misstate the math; parity or framing are separate layers and do not change the base conversion; Unicode or character encodings do not alter the bits-per-byte identity.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing physical-layer framing with payload size; assuming all 64-bit data types have hidden overhead bits.


Final Answer:
Incorrect

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