Hex to binary — two-digit example Convert the hexadecimal value C1₁₆ to an 8-bit binary representation.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 11000001

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Hexadecimal maps cleanly to binary because each hex digit corresponds to 4 bits (a nibble). Converting hex to binary is a matter of replacing each hex digit with its 4-bit equivalent and concatenating the results.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Hex input: C1.
  • Hex-to-binary nibble mapping is used.
  • We want a compact 8-bit result.

Concept / Approach:Map C → 1100 and 1 → 0001, then join the two nibbles in the same order. No arithmetic is required beyond table lookup for the digits 0–F.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) C → 12 decimal → binary 1100.2) 1 → 1 decimal → binary 0001.3) Concatenate: 1100 0001 → 11000001.4) Ensure 8 bits are kept (leading zeros retained where necessary).

Verification / Alternative check:Convert back via grouping: 1100 0001 → C1 in hex, confirming correctness.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 1000111, 111000100, 111000001: wrong bit lengths or wrong nibble mappings; do not decode back to C1.

Common Pitfalls:Dropping leading zeros in the lower nibble or reversing nibble order.

Final Answer:11000001

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