Ever wonder how computers, smartphones, and all things digital *really* work? The answer lies in a simple, yet powerful system: the binary number system. Unlike our familiar decimal system (base-10), binary uses only two digits: 0 and 1 (base-2).
Think of it like a light switch: it's either on (1) or off (0). Computers use these on/off states to represent information. Each 0 or 1 is called a 'bit' (binary digit). These bits are combined in sequences to represent everything from letters and numbers to images and videos.
For example, the decimal number 5 is represented as 101 in binary. Understanding how to convert between decimal and binary isn't crucial for most users, but appreciating the underlying principle opens a window into the heart of computer science. So next time you're using your favorite gadget, remember those humble 0s and 1s – the foundation of the digital world!
