Data representation in binary form questions and answers
Q1. Explain why computers use binary.
A1. Computers are made up of switches. A switch can only have two positions – on or off. These correspond to a one or a zero, or binary. However, we can represent any piece of data by grouping binary numbers together to form codes.
Q2. What is meant by the ‘denary numbering system’?
A2. The common number system we use in our lives, which use the digits 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and 9.
Q3. Apart from the size of a digit, what else is important in determining how much a digit is worth?
A3. It’s position in the number relative to the other digits.
Q4. What digits are used in the binary system?
A4. One and zero.
Q5. What does the binary number 101 represent in denary?
A5. This represents 5 in denary.
Q6. What does the binary number 1000 represent in denary?
A6. This represents 8 in denary.
Q7. What does the binary 1111 1111 represent in denary?
A7. This represents 255 in denary.
Q8. Why is binary important?
A8. Binary is important because computers are made up of switches, which have two positions. By combining switches into groups, you can create codes which can be used to represent numbers, characters, sound, pictures and video.
Q9. What is a 'chip' in computing?
A9. A chip is an integrated circuit. This is a component made out of silicon which has billions of switches and other components manufactured into it.
Q10. How does an integrated circuit actually represent binary numbers?
A10. The ones and zeros in binary in an IC is represented using two different voltages. You can think of zero as 0 volts and a one as 5 volts although in practice, other voltages may be used.