Multi-nibble binary subtraction (treating the numbers as continuous) Compute the result of subtracting the 24-bit binary value 0010 0011 0011 1000 0101 0111 from 0101 1000 1010 0011 1101 1110.

Introduction / Context:Large binary subtractions are common when working with addresses, checksums, and digital signal processing. Grouping bits into nibbles (4-bit hex digits) simplifies long subtractions via hexadecimal arithmetic.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Minuend: 0101 1000 1010 0011 1101 1110.
• Subtrahend: 0010 0011 0011 1000 0101 0111.
• Interpret numbers as continuous 24-bit values, not independent nibbles.

Concept / Approach:Convert grouped nibbles to hexadecimal, subtract in hex, then convert back to binary. Hex is base-16 and aligns exactly with 4-bit groups, streamlining arithmetic while preserving accuracy.

Step-by-Step Solution:Convert minuend to hex: 0101 1000 1010 0011 1101 1110 → 0x58A3DE.Convert subtrahend to hex: 0010 0011 0011 1000 0101 0111 → 0x233857.Subtract: 0x58A3DE − 0x233857 = 0x356B87.Back to binary: 0x35 6B 87 → 0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111.

Verification / Alternative check:Decimal cross-check: 0x58A3DE = 5800158 (decimal); 0x233857 = 2301527 (decimal); difference = 3498631 (decimal) = 0x356B87, consistent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Each incorrect option differs by one or more nibbles from 0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111; these reflect common borrow/hex conversion mistakes.

Common Pitfalls:Attempting nibble-wise subtraction with independent borrows per nibble instead of continuous subtraction across the entire word, and mis-converting between binary and hex digits.

Final Answer:0011 0101 0110 1011 1000 0111