Data Size Terminology — Relative Length Considering the common terms bit, byte, nibble, and word, which is typically the longest unit of data width in general computer architecture usage?

Introduction / Context:
Understanding standard data width terminology prevents confusion when reading documentation. The terms bit, nibble, byte, and word describe increasing sizes often aligned to hardware registers, buses, and memory operations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Bit is a single binary digit.
• Nibble is 4 bits.
• Byte is 8 bits.
• Word is the native register width of an architecture, commonly 16, 32, or 64 bits.

Concept / Approach:
Rank units by typical width. In most contexts, a word represents the processor natural data size and exceeds a byte. While specific sizes vary by architecture, word is widely the largest among the listed standard terms.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Order: bit < nibble (4) < byte (8) < word (16 or more).2) Compare magnitudes: word is at least 16 bits in classic usage and can be larger.3) Therefore, word is typically the longest unit listed.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check examples: x86 historically uses 16-bit word, 32-bit double word, 64-bit quad word; ARM and many others use 32-bit word in some documentation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Bit: smallest possible unit.
• Nibble: only 4 bits.
• Byte: 8 bits, smaller than typical word sizes.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming byte equals word; forgetting that the exact size of word can vary but remains larger than a byte for most systems.

Final Answer:
Word