Direct base conversion — map a small decimal to hex: Convert the decimal number 12 into its standard hexadecimal notation.

Introduction / Context:
Hexadecimal is widely used in digital electronics because each hex digit corresponds cleanly to four binary bits. Converting small decimals to hex helps build fluency for reading register maps, memory dumps, and microcontroller documentation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Decimal input: 12.
• Standard hex digit set: 0–9 and A–F (A=10, B=11, C=12, …).
• We express the answer with the “16” subscript marker (as in the options) to clarify the base.

Concept / Approach:
Translate decimal values 10–15 to single hex digits A–F. Therefore, 12 corresponds to the hex symbol C. The correct notation is C16, indicating base-16.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize 12 lies in 10–15 range.Map 12 → C (hex digit with value 12).Write final form as C16.

Verification / Alternative check:
Binary cross-check: 12₁₀ = 1100₂; grouping by 4 bits gives hex C, confirming the mapping.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1216 suggests a base misinterpretation; 12 in hex would be 0x0C if two digits were required.
A216 and A16 correspond to decimal 162 and 10 respectively, not 12.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the hex literal “0xC” with the base-annotated form “C16”; assuming two hex digits are always required even when a single digit suffices.

Final Answer:
C16