Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Large binary subtractions are common when working with addresses, checksums, and digital signal processing. Grouping bits into nibbles (4-bit hex digits) simplifies long subtractions via hexadecimal arithmetic.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Convert grouped nibbles to hexadecimal, subtract in hex, then convert back to binary. Hex is base-16 and aligns exactly with 4-bit groups, streamlining arithmetic while preserving accuracy.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Convert minuend to hex: 0101 1000 1010 0011 1101 1110 → 0x58A3DE.Convert subtrahend to hex: 0010 0011 0011 1000 0101 0111 → 0x233857.Subtract: 0x58A3DE − 0x233857 = 0x356B87.Back to binary: 0x35 6B 87 → 0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111.
Verification / Alternative check:
Decimal cross-check: 0x58A3DE = 5800158 (decimal); 0x233857 = 2301527 (decimal); difference = 3498631 (decimal) = 0x356B87, consistent.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each incorrect option differs by one or more nibbles from 0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111; these reflect common borrow/hex conversion mistakes.
Common Pitfalls:
Attempting nibble-wise subtraction with independent borrows per nibble instead of continuous subtraction across the entire word, and mis-converting between binary and hex digits.
Final Answer:
0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111
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