What is the maximum number of comparisons that would be needed to determine whether or not a match is found in a binary search of 64 elements?
A)6
B)7
C)63
D)64

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a binary search, the maximum number of comparisons are determined by the number of times you can divide the array in half before you get to the element you're searching for. In this case, you can divide 64 elements in half 6 times (2^6 = 64). Therefore, the maximum number of comparisons is 6. However, because we also have to compare the final element to determine whether or not it's a match, we need one extra comparison, bringing the total to 7. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

What Is the Maximum Number of Comparisons That Would Be