How to Convert Decimal to Binary ?
Do you ever wonder how computers understand numbers ? Computer uses a system of ones and zeros known as Binary. Binary is a base-2 number system that uses only two digit: 0 and 1.
It is the most basic way to represent numeric values, and it is the foundation of all digital system.
In this blog article, we will discuss the process of converting a decimal number to its binary equivalent. By the end, you will have a better understanding of how binary works and how to convert decimals to binary numbers.
What is a Decimal number system ?
A decimal number system is a base 10 number system, which means that it uses 10 distinct symbols (0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and 9) to represent different values.
It is the most commonly used number system in the world, and is used in everyday activities such as counting, measuring and making calculations.
What is a Binary number system ?
A binary number system is a base-2 number system that uses two different symbols, typically 0and 1, to represent any type of data. It is used in digital and computer systems because it is easy for machine to interpret and process.
Binary is the simplest type of number system that uses only two digits,0 and 1, to represent information.
Importance of converting decimal to binary
Converting a decimal number to binary ca help in understanding the basic concepts of computer programming.
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Binary numbers are more efficient for computers to process for computers to process than decimal numbers.
Binary numbers are used in digital circuits, including logic gates and memory chips.
Number systems are used to represent memory addresses, which allow computers to access and manipulate data stored in memory.
Converting a decimal number to binary can help understand how computers communicate with each other.
It can help understand how computer store data, as well as how they process data.
There are two terms which are used to describe the ordering of bits in a binary number:
LSB (Least Significant Bit)
LSB stands for Least Significant Bit and is the bit located at the right most position in a byte or word. It is the lowest order bit and its value is usually 0 or 1.
For example in the byte
11010100, the LSB is 0
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MSB (Most Significant Bit
MSB stands for Most Significant Bit and is the bit located at the left most position in a byte or word. It is the highest order bit and its value is usually 0 or 1.
For example in the byte
11010100, the MSB is 1
How to convert decimal to binary ?
First identify the decimal number that needs to be converted to binary.
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Divide the decimal number by two and note down the remainder
Divide the quotient by two again note down the remainder.
Repeat the process until the quotient becomes zero
The remainder form a binary number, which is the result of the conversion.
Read the remainders from the last division to the first division in the reverse order. This will be the binary representation of the decimal number.
You will easily understand by the help of below example
Conclusion
In conclusion, converting a decimal to binary system is a relatively simple process. With the help of few basic steps, you can easily convert any decimal number to its binary equivalent.
It is important to remember that binary number system is based on the power of two, and the least significant bit is always the rightmost bit.
With understanding and careful practice, you can easily convert any decimal number to its binary equivalent.
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