[Python] Coding Interview Patterns: Unpublished Lessons/

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Solution: Sum of Two Integers

Solution: Sum of Two Integers

Let's solve the Sum of Two Integers problem using the Bitwise Manipulation pattern.

We'll cover the following...

Statement

Given two integers, a and b, return their sum without using the addition or subtraction operators.

Constraints:

  • −1000≤-1000\leq a, b ≤1000\leq 1000

Solution

We will use the bitwise manipulation pattern to calculate the sum of two integers without using the arithmetic operators. To calculate the desired sum, we'll use the bitwise operations.

Let's dive into the logic to get a better idea of how to use bitwise operations for this task:

  • Bitwise XOR (^) operation: This operation allows us to calculate the sum of corresponding bits in a and b without considering the carry (if any).

  • Bitwise AND (&) operation: The AND operation will help us determine where carry propagation is necessary. By applying this operation to a and b, we can identify which bit positions require carry consideration.

  • Iterative Process: The algorithm functions iteratively, much like how binary addition is carried out. We will start with the least significant bits and advance toward the most significant bits of a and b. At each bit ...