Octal digits for 12-bit binary – UGC NET Question

Each octal digit represents 3 binary bits because base 8 equals 2³. For a 12-bit binary number, we need 12 ÷ 3 = 4 octal digits to represent all possible combinations. This grouping covers all 12 bits exactly without wasted digits or missing bits. Therefore, the minimum number of octal digits required is 4, which makes option B correct.

Option A:
Option A, 3 octal digits, cover only 9 bits, which is insufficient for 12-bit numbers.

Option B:
Option B is correct because 4 octal digits represent 12 bits exactly (4×3).

Option C:
Option C, 5 digits, cover 15 bits and are not minimal.

Option D:
Option D, 6 digits, cover 18 bits and are far from minimal.