What value is represented by the bit pattern 01011100 when interpreted using floating-point format in which the most significant bit is the sign bit,the next three bits represent the exponent field in excess notation,and the last four bits represent the mantissa?
A) -1 1/2
B) 1 1/2
C) -3/8
D) 3/8

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the given format, the bit pattern 01011100 can be written as:

Sign bit = 0 (positive number)
Exponent field = 101 (excess notation, so actual exponent = 5-3 = 2)
Mantissa = 1100 (implicitly starts with 1, so value is 1.1 in binary)

Therefore, the value represented is:

(-1)^0 * 1.1 * 2^(2) = 1 1/2

Therefore, the best choice is B.

What Value Is Represented by the Bit Pattern 01011100 When