Memory sizing shorthand: In computer memory contexts, what value does 4k most commonly represent?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 4096

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In computing, the letter k traditionally denotes 1024 (2^10) rather than the SI value 1000, especially for memory sizes and addressable units. As a result, 4k in memory discussions typically means 4096 bytes or addresses.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Context is digital memory sizing (RAM pages, blocks, buffers).
  • Binary-based scaling is standard in many legacy and low-level contexts.
  • We follow the power-of-two convention used in operating systems and hardware.


Concept / Approach:
Since 1k = 2^10 = 1024, multiply by 4: 4k = 4 * 1024 = 4096. This aligns with common page sizes (e.g., 4kB pages) and buffer alignment boundaries in systems programming.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Note definition: 1k (binary) = 1024.Compute 4 * 1024 = 4096.Therefore, 4k = 4096 (typically bytes).


Verification / Alternative check:
Typical OS page size on many architectures is 4kB, confirming 4k = 4096 bytes in practice.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
4000 is SI-based but not the standard in this legacy memory context. 40 and 400 are unrelated magnitudes.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing binary k (1024) with metric k (1000); modern documentation sometimes distinguishes with KiB (kibibyte) to avoid ambiguity.


Final Answer:
4096

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