A digital magnitude comparator examines two binary numbers A and B. Which set of outcomes does it determine for any given comparison?

Introduction / Context:
Magnitude comparators are fundamental building blocks in ALUs, sorting networks, and decision logic. They compare two binary numbers and report relational results that drive control paths or select signals in digital systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Binary operands A and B, of equal width.
• Comparator outputs indicate equality and ordering.
• No arithmetic overflow or signed interpretation issues (assume unsigned unless specified).

Concept / Approach:
A standard magnitude comparator outputs three mutually exclusive signals: AB. These cover all possible orderings. Equality enables exact match detection, while greater-than or less-than flags inform selection and branching.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Evaluate bitwise from MSB to LSB; the first differing bit determines ordering.2) If all bits match, assert equality (A = B).3) If a higher-order bit in A is 1 while B is 0 at the first difference, A > B; the opposite implies A < B.4) Report exactly one of the three outcomes at a time.

Verification / Alternative check:
Truth tables for 1-bit comparators expand to n-bit comparators by cascading. Commercial devices (e.g., 74xx85 family) provide AB outputs.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options with symbols like ≈ or » are not standard comparator outcomes.

Options omitting equality or one ordering are incomplete.

Using ≥ alone is insufficient; comparators typically give the full ternary result set.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing signed and unsigned comparisons; sign handling requires different logic. Also, ensure width matching or include cascading inputs for multi-word comparisons.

Final Answer:
A = B and whether A > B or A < B