[Solved] Consider two approaches to check if a number is a power of two: Approach 1: Repeated division by 2 until 1 or non-divisible. Approach 2:... When is Approach 1 preferable over Approach 2? | Bit Manipulation

Bit Manipulation - Power of Two

Consider two approaches to check if a number is a power of two: Approach 1: Repeated division by 2 until 1 or non-divisible. Approach 2: Bit manipulation using n & (n - 1). When is Approach 1 preferable over Approach 2?

AWhen the input number is extremely large and bit operations are slow

BWhen the input number is negative or zero

CWhen the environment does not support bitwise operations

DWhen the input number is small and readability is prioritized

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Compare approaches
Bit manipulation is faster and more efficient but requires language support for bitwise ops.
Step 2: Identify scenario favoring division
If the programming environment lacks bitwise operators (e.g., some high-level languages or restricted environments), repeated division is the fallback.
Final Answer:
Option C -> Option C
Quick Check:
Division works universally; bitwise ops require language support [OK]

Quick Trick: Use division if bitwise ops unavailable [OK]

Common Mistakes:

MISTAKES

Assuming bitwise always better
Ignoring environment constraints

Trap Explanation:

PITFALL

Candidates often overlook language or environment limitations on bitwise operations.

Interviewer Note:

CONTEXT

Tests understanding of practical trade-offs between approaches.

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More Bit Manipulation Quizzes

When is Approach 1 preferable over Approach 2?

Step 1: Compare approaches

Step 2: Identify scenario favoring division

Final Answer:

Quick Check:

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