Binary to Hexadecimal — Nibble Grouping Method Convert the binary number 1011010 (base 2) to its hexadecimal representation by grouping into 4-bit nibbles.

Introduction / Context:
Hexadecimal condenses binary into a compact form because 16 equals 2^4. Every four binary bits map to a single hex digit. This conversion skill is required when reading machine code, register dumps, and memory addresses.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Binary input: 1011010.
• No sign bit; straight magnitude conversion.
• Left padding with zeros is allowed to complete a 4-bit group.

Concept / Approach:
Pad the most significant side with zeros so that the bit length is a multiple of four. Then translate each 4-bit nibble to a hex digit using 0000→0 up to 1111→F. Concatenate the hex digits in the same order.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Pad: 1011010 → 01011010 (now 8 bits).2) Group: 0101 1010.3) Translate: 0101→5, 1010→A.4) Combine: 5A.

Verification / Alternative check:
Convert 5A back to binary: 5→0101 and A→1010, which yields 01011010. Removing the leading padding zero recovers 1011010, confirming correctness.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 5B, 5C, 5F: Each differs in the low nibble mapping (1011, 1100, 1111 respectively) and does not match 1010.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to pad on the left or grouping from the wrong side, which changes the nibble boundaries and the resulting hex digits.

Final Answer:
5A