What Is Binary? Understanding How Computers Use Base 2
Binary is a system of numerical notation that uses only two symbols – 0 and 1 – to represent all numbers and operations. It is the foundation of how computers work and communicate, and understanding binary is essential in modern computer science, programming, and electronics.
In binary, each digit refers to the value of a different power of 2, starting from the rightmost digit, which represents 2^0 (or 1). The next digit to the left represents 2^1, then 2^2, and so on, with each digit double the value of the previous one. To represent a number in binary, you add up the values of the digits with a 1 and ignore the digits with a 0.
For example, the binary number 10110101 represents (1 * 2^7) + (0 * 2^6) + (1 * 2^5) + (1 * 2^4) + (0 * 2^3) + (1 * 2^2) + (0 * 2^1) + (1 * 2^0) = 181 in decimal notation.
Binary is used in computers because electronic circuitry can easily distinguish between two states – on or off, high voltage or low voltage – which correspond to the digits 1 and 0. This allows computers to store and process data in a very efficient way.
For example, every letter, number, and symbol in a computer’s memory is represented as a binary pattern of 0s and 1s. Each pixel on a screen is also represented as a binary value that determines its color and brightness. Binary is the language that computers use to communicate with each other over networks, and it is also the basis of encryption and security protocols.
Understanding binary is essential for anyone interested in computer science or programming because it is the foundation of how computers work. It is also a fascinating concept in its own right, and studying binary can help you develop a deeper understanding of mathematics and logic.