Hexadecimal conversion: what is the hexadecimal equivalent of the binary number 10101111 (base 2)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: AF

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Binary-to-hex conversion is convenient because each hex digit corresponds to 4 binary bits. This mapping avoids lengthy decimal conversions and is widely used in debugging, memory dumps, and instruction encoding.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Binary value: 10101111₂.
  • We will group the bits in nibbles (4-bit groups).
  • No sign or fractional parts are involved.


Concept / Approach:
Split into nibbles: 1010 1111. Translate: 1010₂ = A₁₆ and 1111₂ = F₁₆. Thus, the hexadecimal representation is AF₁₆.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Group: 1010 1111. Convert: 1010 → A; 1111 → F. Concatenate: AF.


Verification / Alternative check:
Decimal check: 10101111₂ = 175₁₀; AF₁₆ = 10*16 + 15 = 175, confirming equivalence.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

9E and 8C decode to different binary values (10011110₂ and 10001100₂). “All of the above” cannot be correct because hex representations are unique.


Common Pitfalls:
Misgrouping bits from the left; forgetting that 1111 equals F, not E.


Final Answer:
AF

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