IGDTUW 2026 — Computer PYQ
IGDTUW | Computer | 2026In floating-point representation, which part represents the significant bits of the number?
Choose the correct answer:
- A.
Exponent
- B.
Sign Bit
- C.
Mantissa
(Correct Answer) - D.
Radix
Mantissa
Explanation
The correct option is (c) Mantissa.
Detailed Explanation:
A standard floating-point number is mathematically represented in scientific notation as:
±M×RE
Where each component serves a distinct purpose:
Mantissa (or Significand): This part contains the actual significant digits (bits) of the number. It determines the precision of the floating-point representation.
Exponent (E): This part represents the power to which the base is raised. It determines the position of the radix point (decimal/binary point) and dictates the dynamic range of the number.
Sign Bit (±): A single bit that indicates whether the number is positive (0) or negative (1).
Radix (R): The base of the number system being used (e.g., R=2 for binary systems in computer architecture, R=10 for decimal).
Because the question asks specifically for the component holding the significant bits, the correct term is the Mantissa.
Explanation
The correct option is (c) Mantissa.
Detailed Explanation:
A standard floating-point number is mathematically represented in scientific notation as:
±M×RE
Where each component serves a distinct purpose:
Mantissa (or Significand): This part contains the actual significant digits (bits) of the number. It determines the precision of the floating-point representation.
Exponent (E): This part represents the power to which the base is raised. It determines the position of the radix point (decimal/binary point) and dictates the dynamic range of the number.
Sign Bit (±): A single bit that indicates whether the number is positive (0) or negative (1).
Radix (R): The base of the number system being used (e.g., R=2 for binary systems in computer architecture, R=10 for decimal).
Because the question asks specifically for the component holding the significant bits, the correct term is the Mantissa.
