When representing data, what does the hexadecimal system allow for?

The hexadecimal system is a base-16 number system, which means it uses sixteen distinct symbols to represent values. These symbols include the digits 0 through 9 and the letters A through F, where A represents 10, B represents 11, C represents 12, D represents 13, E represents 14, and F represents 15.

This system is particularly efficient for representing large binary values because one hexadecimal digit can represent four binary digits (bits). This compact representation makes it easier for humans to read and write large numbers and is widely used in computing, especially in programming and digital electronics, to simplify binary code.

The other options do not accurately describe the unique aspects of the hexadecimal system. For instance, stating that it only uses ten digits neglects the additional six symbols unique to hexadecimal. Additionally, representing only integer values is inaccurate since hexadecimal can also represent non-integer values and is applied in contexts such as color codes in web design. Claiming that binary must be used exclusively overlooks the hexadecimal system's role as a shorthand for representing binary numbers. Thus, option B correctly identifies the efficiency and comprehensive nature of representation that hexadecimal provides.