Binary Numbers: The Language of Computers
Introduction to Binary
• Binary is a number system that uses only two digits: 0 and 1
• It's the fundamental language of computers and digital systems
• Understanding binary is crucial for computer science and digital technology
• In this presentation, we'll explore binary numbers and their applications
What is the Binary System?
• A base-2 number system (unlike our decimal system, which is base-10)
• Each digit represents a power of 2
• Binary digits are called "bits" (short for binary digits)
• Example: 101_2 in binary = 5_{10} in decimal
Why Do Computers Use Binary?
• Simple to implement with electronic circuits
• Two states: ON (1) and OFF (0)
• Matches the fundamental nature of digital electronics
• Allows for efficient data processing and storage
Converting Decimal to Binary
• Method: Divide by 2 repeatedly, keep track of remainders
• Example: Convert 13_{10} to binary
1. 13 ÷ 2 = 6 remainder 1
2. 6 ÷ 2 = 3 remainder 0
3. 3 ÷ 2 = 1 remainder 1
4. 1 ÷ 2 = 0 remainder 1
• Result: 13_{10} = 1101_2 (read remainders from bottom to top)
Converting Binary to Decimal
• Method: Multiply each digit by its corresponding power of 2
• Example: Convert 1011_2 to decimal
1 × 2^3 + 0 × 2^2 + 1 × 2^1 + 1 × 2^0
8 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 11_{10}
• Result: 1011_2 = 11_{10}
Binary Addition
• Rules: 0 + 0 = 0, 0 + 1 = 1, 1 + 0 = 1, 1 + 1 = 10 (carry the 1)
• Example:
1011_2
+ 1101_2
--------
11000_2
Binary Subtraction
• Similar to decimal subtraction, but with borrowing
• Example:
1011_2
- 0101_2
--------
0110_2
Binary Multiplication
• Similar to decimal multiplication, but simpler
• Only multiply by 0 or 1
• Example:
101_2
× 011_2
--------
101
101
000
--------
1111_2
Binary Fractions
• Represented using binary point (similar to decimal point)
• Each fraction digit represents a negative power of 2
• Example: 0.101_2 = 1/2 + 0/4 + 1/8 = 0.625_{10}
Applications of Binary in Computing
• Data storage (hard drives, memory)
• Data transmission (networks, internet)
• Computer processing (CPU operations)
• Digital images and audio
• Cryptography and data security
Binary and Computer Memory
• Memory is organized in bytes (8 bits)
• 1 byte can represent 256 different values (2^8)
• Kilobyte (KB) = 1024 bytes
• Megabyte (MB) = 1024 KB
• Gigabyte (GB) = 1024 MB
ASCII and Unicode
• ASCII: American Standard Code for Information Interchange
• Uses 7 bits to represent 128 characters
• Unicode: Universal character encoding standard
• Uses 16 bits or more to represent characters from all writing systems
Binary in Everyday Life
• Digital displays (clocks, calculators)
• Barcodes and QR codes
• Digital photography and video
• Morse code (a binary-like system)
• DNA sequencing in biology
Conclusion
• Binary is the foundation of modern computing
• Essential for understanding how computers work
• Applications extend beyond computers into many areas of technology
• Mastering binary enhances problem-solving skills in computer science
• Questions for class discussion: How might understanding binary impact your future career or
daily life?
ACTIVITY
Understanding Digital Circuits and Binary Numbers
Digital circuits are the backbone of modern electronic devices. They use a series of
interconnected logic gates to process information. One fundamental concept in digital circuits is
the use of binary numbers, which consist of only two digits: 0 and 1. These numbers are used to
represent data in electronic devices. Understanding how binary numbers work is essential for
comprehending how digital circuits function.
Fill in the Blank: Fill in the blank with the correct words.
1. Digital circuits use __ gates to process information.
2. Binary numbers consist of only two digits, _ and _.
3. In a digital circuit, data is represented using __ numbers.
4. A __ is a basic building block of a digital circuit.
5. The binary number system is also known as base __.
Word bank: 1, logic, 2, 0, binary, gate
Multiple Choice Questions: Choose the correct answer from the choices for each question.
1. What is the primary number system used in digital circuits?
o a) Decimal
o b) Binary
o c) Hexadecimal
o d) Octal
2. Which of the following is a basic component of a digital circuit?
o a) Transistor
o b) Capacitor
o c) Inductor
o d) Resistor
3. How many digits are used in the binary number system?
o a) One
o b) Two
o c) Three
o d) Four
4. Which digit is NOT part of the binary number system?
o a) 0
o b) 1
o c) 2
o d) All are part of the binary system
5. What does a logic gate do in a digital circuit?
o a) Stores data
o b) Transmits data
o c) Processes data
o d) Deletes data
Open Ended Questions: Answer the following questions in complete sentences:
1. Explain why binary numbers are used in digital circuits instead of decimal numbers.
2. Describe what a logic gate is and provide an example of how it can be used in a digital
circuit.
3. Discuss how the binary number system simplifies the design of electronic devices.
