Binary-to-hexadecimal translation: What is the hexadecimal equivalent of the 8-bit binary pattern 1011 1111?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: BF16

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Translating binary to hexadecimal is a quick way to express long bit strings more compactly. The conversion is exact and relies on 4-bit groupings, because each hex digit corresponds to a binary nibble. This is commonly used in datasheets, debuggers, and memory dumps.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Binary pattern: 1011 1111.
  • We assume big-end nibble grouping from the left as shown.
  • Hexadecimal uses digits 0–9 and A–F.


Concept / Approach:
Group the bits into nibbles: 1011 and 1111. Convert each nibble to its hex digit: 1011 = B (decimal 11), 1111 = F (decimal 15). Combine digits to form the hex value BF. The provided option includes a base annotation “16” as BF16, which is acceptable as a notation for base 16.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Split: 1011 1111 → 1011 and 1111.Map: 1011 → B; 1111 → F.Concatenate hex digits: BF.Select option indicating BF in base 16: BF16.


Verification / Alternative check:
Convert BF16 back to binary: B = 1011, F = 1111, which reconstructs 1011 1111 exactly.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
FB16 reverses nibble order; 27716 expresses an octal-like form and is unrelated; 10111111 is simply the original binary, not a hex conversion.


Common Pitfalls:
Swapping nibble order; misreading 1111 as E instead of F; ignoring the space that separates nibbles for readability only.


Final Answer:
BF16

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