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algorithmxor

Determine numbers based on their sum and xor

If we know the sum and XOR of two numbers, then can we find out what are the two numbers?

I am trying to resolve a problem and the above problem is a part of that. Although, I do have another solution for that problem but I still want a solution for this.

Solution

  • No.

    Example: SUM=7, XOR=7
    Possible answers:
    a) 1, 6
    b) 2, 5
    c) 3, 4

    Not enough information to decide which pair (a, b or c) is the original pair of numbers.