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Why does Unicode use variable-length encoding like UTF-8 instead of fixed-length encoding?

hard🧠 Conceptual Q10 of Q15
Intro to Computing - How Data is Represented
Why does Unicode use variable-length encoding like UTF-8 instead of fixed-length encoding?
ATo save space for common characters while supporting all characters
BTo make encoding slower
CTo limit characters to English only
DTo avoid using any bits for control characters
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:

  1. Step 1: Understand UTF-8 variable-length encoding

    UTF-8 uses 1 to 4 bytes per character, saving space for common ASCII characters.

  2. Step 2: Recognize benefits of variable length

    This allows efficient storage and supports all Unicode characters worldwide.

  3. Final Answer:

    To save space for common characters while supporting all characters -> Option A

  4. Quick Check:

    UTF-8 variable length = space efficient + universal [OK]
Quick Trick: UTF-8 saves space by using variable bytes [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Thinking UTF-8 slows encoding
  • Believing UTF-8 limits to English
  • Ignoring control characters usage

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