A full adder differs from a half adder in that it accepts a carry-in (C_in) in addition to the two operand bits, enabling multi-bit ripple addition. Evaluate this statement.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Correct

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Adders are fundamental to digital systems. The distinction between half adder and full adder explains how wide adders are constructed from bit-slices and why carry chaining is possible.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Half adder: inputs A, B → outputs SUM, C_out; no C_in.
  • Full adder: inputs A, B, C_in → outputs SUM, C_out.
  • Goal: enable multi-bit addition by propagating carry.


Concept / Approach:
Because a full adder accepts a carry-in, it can be cascaded so that each bit position accounts for carry from the previous less significant bit. This is essential for correct multi-bit arithmetic and underlies ripple-carry and faster adder architectures.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) For LSB, set C_in = 0 (or external carry-in).2) Compute SUM and C_out at each bit with a full adder.3) Feed C_out(i) to C_in(i+1) to chain the bits.4) Obtain an N-bit sum with proper carry propagation.


Verification / Alternative check:
Truth tables and standard FA implementations show explicit C_in handling; half adders lack this input.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Incorrect” denies the defining property. “Only half adders have carry-in” is backwards. “Full adders output only carry” omits the SUM output which is essential.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing half and full adder roles; not initializing the least significant carry-in properly.


Final Answer:
Correct

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