How many nibbles are in 128 bytes?

Appeared in: AIIMS Nagpur NO- 2020

Explanation

The core of this question is the conversion between bytes and nibbles.
A byte is a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits.
A nibble is a smaller unit, consisting of 4 bits.
Therefore, one byte contains two nibbles (8 bits / 4 bits per nibble = 2).
To find the number of nibbles in 128 bytes, you multiply the number of bytes by the conversion factor: 128 bytes × 2 nibbles/byte = 256 nibbles.

Option A: The value 64 would be the result of dividing 128 by 2. This incorrectly assumes that 1 byte is equal to half a nibble, or that 2 bytes make a nibble.
Option B: The value 1024 is the result of multiplying 128 by 8. This calculation correctly converts 128 bytes to bits (128 bytes × 8 bits/byte = 1024 bits), not nibbles.
Option C: The value 512 is the result of multiplying 128 by 4. This incorrectly assumes that 1 byte is equal to 4 nibbles.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Data Storage Unit Conversion (Bytes to Nibbles) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While not a direct clinical skill, basic computer literacy is essential for modern nursing practice.
Nurses regularly interact with digital systems, including Electronic Health Records (EHRs), medical devices, and telehealth platforms, where understanding data concepts can be beneficial.
What if? If a nurse needs to document data from a device that measures in small packets, understanding these basic data units helps appreciate the precision and structure of digital information, even if they don't perform these calculations daily.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task of the question, which is a unit conversion problem (bytes to nibbles).
Recall or determine the relationship between the two units. Remember the fundamental definitions: 1 byte = 8 bits and 1 nibble = 4 bits.
From the fundamental definitions, derive the direct conversion factor: 1 byte = (8 bits) / (4 bits/nibble) = 2 nibbles.
Apply this conversion factor to the value given in the question: 128 bytes * 2 nibbles/byte.
Perform the multiplication to find the final answer (256) and select the corresponding option.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.