Error detection basics: Is a parity bit (for example, odd or even parity) used to detect errors in data transmission that may be caused by noise?

Introduction / Context:
Communication systems often add redundancy to detect data corruption introduced by noise or interference. The simplest redundancy mechanism is a single parity bit appended to each data word. This question verifies that you understand parity as a detection mechanism, not a correction mechanism, and that it is sensitive primarily to odd numbers of bit errors.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Parity can be “even” (total ones count even) or “odd” (total ones count odd).
• One parity bit is appended to each word or character.
• Transmission errors may flip bits.

Concept / Approach:
At the receiver, the system recomputes parity on the received data and compares it with the received parity bit. A mismatch indicates that an odd number of bits flipped (most commonly a single-bit error). Parity cannot localize the error nor correct it; it merely signals that corruption likely occurred.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider a single flipped bit: parity changes and a mismatch is detected. Consider two flipped bits: parity may match (missed detection), demonstrating the limitation of single-bit parity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Overestimating parity’s capability; for stronger protection use checksums or CRCs which detect more error patterns.

Final Answer:
Correct