The binary number system is a base-2 numeral system used which is being used in modern computers. This binary system uses ten digits (0–9), binary uses only two: 0 and 1. Each binary digit is called a bit.
Though the concept may sound technical, binary functions on the same principles as the decimal system. The key difference lies in its base—2 instead of 10.
Why Is Binary So Important in Computing?
Computers are built using digital circuits, which operate using two states—on and off. This perfectly matches the binary system’s two digits. For this reason, binary is the natural language of computers. Designing circuits to recognize just two states (0 and 1) is far simpler and more efficient than detecting all ten digits used in decimal.
Decimal vs. Binary: How the Systems Compare
| Decimal |
Binary |
| 0 |
0 |
| 1 |
1 |
| 2 |
10 |
| 3 |
11 |
| 4 |
100 |
| 7 |
111 |
| 8 |
1000 |
| 10 |
1010 |
| 16 |
10000 |
| 20 |
10100 |
How Binary Values Work?
Each position in a binary number shows a power of 2, starting from right to left.
Example: Binary of 8 (1000)
2³ = 8 → 1
2² = 4 → 0
2¹ = 2 → 0
2⁰ = 1 → 0
So, 1000 in binary = 8 in decimal
Example: Binary of 18 (10010)
2⁴ = 16 → 1
2¹ = 2 → 1
Others → 0
Thus, 10010 = 16 + 2 = 18
How to convert Decimal to Binary:?
Find the highest power of 2 less than or equal to the number.
Subtract that value from the number.
Repeat with the remainder.
Write 1s for positions used and 0s for unused powers.
Example: 18 to binary
How to convert Binary to Decimal:
Example: 10111
2⁴ = 16
2² = 4
2¹ = 2
2⁰ = 1
Sum: 16 + 4 + 2 + 1 = 23
