4. What are binary numbers? Why do computers use binary numbers?
Binary numbers are a way of representing numbers using only two digits: 0 and 1. In contrast to the decimal number system, which uses ten digits (0-9), binary numbers use a base of 2. Each digit in a binary number represents a power of 2.
Computers use binary numbers because their fundamental hardware components, such as transistors, operate in two states: on or off. These states can be represented by the binary digits 0 and 1. By using binary numbers, computers can easily interpret and manipulate data using simple electrical circuits and logical operations.
Binary numbers also simplify digital communication and storage. The binary system allows for efficient encoding and decoding of information, making it easier for computers to process and store large amounts of data. Additionally, binary numbers are less prone to errors and are more reliable than other number systems due to the clear distinction between the two digits.