A computer can store a maximum of 80 bits for a text message. Each character is stored using 7-bit ASCII.
State the maximum number of whole characters that can be stored in the message.
Mark scheme
Award one mark for:
- 11 (characters) (1)
Allow 11 remainder 3.
Allow 80 ÷ 7 = 11.428... rounded down to 11.
Do not accept 11.4 or 12 (rounding up or giving a decimal answer).
Do not award an unevaluated calculation such as 80 ÷ 7 with no answer.
Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks1/1
11
Why: Correct: 80 ÷ 7 = 11 remainder 3, so 11 whole characters can be stored (1).
No marks0/1
11.4
Why: Near miss: gives a decimal result rather than the number of whole characters; the mark scheme does not accept 11.4.
No marks0/1
12
Why: Rounds up to 12, but 12 characters would need 84 bits, more than the 80 available; the mark scheme does not accept 12.