P2 T1 L6 - Fixed point numbers

Question 1

Since calculations often have fractional results, computers need to be able to store ____ numbers

Answer 1

real

Question 2

In a fixed point number the binary (decimal) point is placed in a position that _____ ___ change.

Answer 2

does not

Question 3

What are the advantages of fixed point numbers?

3 advantages

Answer 3

1. It is very simple to translate which makes processing faster
2. If the number range is known then there is greater precision than with floating point numbers.
3. Used with currency data types – only ever two (denary) places to the right of the point

Question 4

What are the disadvantages of fixed point numbers?

2 disadvantages

Answer 4

1. the number range is limited

2. Columns are potentially wasted

Question 5

The columns to the right of the binary (decimal) point ______ in value each time a move to the right takes place

Answer 5

halve