To perform 16-bit binary addition, we need to sum 16 bits in a ripple-carry adder configuration. A half adder can only handle the addition of the least significant bit, while full adders handle the remaining bits. \[\] A half adder adds two bits but cannot handle a carry from previous bits. It is used only at the least significant bit position. \[\] - Full adders can handle a sum and a carry from a previous bit position.\[\] 1. The least significant bit requires one half adder. \[\] 2. The remaining 15 bits each require a full adder.\[\] Hence: \[\] - 1 half adder is required for the least significant bit.