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Identify the bug in the following bitwise FSM code snippet for Single Number II: ```python def singleNumber(nums): ones = 0 twos = 0 for num in nums: ones ^= num twos |= ones & num common_mask = ~(ones & twos) ones &= common_mask twos &= common_mask return ones ```

medium🐞 Bug Identification Q7 of Q15
Bit Manipulation - Single Number II (Three Copies)
Identify the bug in the following bitwise FSM code snippet for Single Number II: ```python def singleNumber(nums): ones = 0 twos = 0 for num in nums: ones ^= num twos |= ones & num common_mask = ~(ones & twos) ones &= common_mask twos &= common_mask return ones ```
ANo bug; code is correct
BThe common_mask calculation is wrong; it should be ~(ones | twos)
CThe bitwise AND with common_mask should be applied only to ones, not twos
DThe order of updating ones and twos is incorrect; twos must be updated before ones
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Compare update order with correct FSM

    Correct FSM updates twos before ones to avoid losing bits prematurely.
  2. Step 2: Identify impact of wrong order

    Updating ones first changes its value before twos uses it, causing incorrect bit tracking.
  3. Final Answer:

    Option D -> Option D
  4. Quick Check:

    Order of updates critical for correct FSM behavior [OK]
Quick Trick: Update twos before ones to preserve bit states [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Swapping update order
  • Miscomputing common_mask
  • Applying mask incorrectly
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL
  • Candidates often overlook update order, which subtly breaks FSM correctness.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT
  • Tests attention to subtle bitwise update order bugs.
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