An Introduction to Number System

A number system denotes how we use numbers everywhere and make use of them. A number system denotes which number sits where and what value it possesses. Understanding the number system helps to understand what bases do the number hold in a figure. A number base is a key factor in understating the system. number base tells us how many numbers are there while using a type of particular numbering system.

For instance, decimal means base 10 whereas binary stands for base two. The decimal system denotes using from 0 to 9 digits, and binary uses 0 and 1. For a man’s uses, base 10 is generally required for different purposes, while computed needs and works with binary base. 

Types of number systems –

As mentioned earlier, the number system represents the positions of different numbers in a figure. The value of a particular number can be understood by the position it holds according to the numbering system. The numbers and their positions help us to do the basic maths such as addition, subtraction, multiplications, and divisions.

There is a deeper system while learning how the number works. The system has 4 types that incorporate solving bigger problems and understanding complex maths.

The four types of number systems are –

• Binary number systems

1. Octal number systems
2. Decimal number systems
3. Hexadecimal number systems

Binary system denotes base 2, octal number system denotes base 8, decimal denotes base 10, and finally hexadecimal means base 16.

Binary number system 

To begin with the binary number system, one should first keep in mind that this particular number system works with 0 and 1. This system is called to have the base 2. The digits 0 and 1 which comprise the binary system are called bits and 8 of these bits together make a byte. That is why in computer language we always use the term bits and bytes to acknowledge the amount of data storage in a particular device. Using any other number other than 0 and 1 is wrong in a binary system.

Octal number system 

The octal number system uses digits like 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7 along with 8 as the base. The octal number system has lesser digits and is expected to witness fewer computational problems. It is important to remember that this number system does not use the digits 8 and 9. The octal number system is also used for computer languages.

Decimal number system 

This particular number system uses up to 10 digits. From 1 to 9 and with a base of 10. This number system is used by humans for their daily problems. The Decimal system represents normal number positions. If any number is without a base then it is more likely to have a base of 10. 

Hexadecimal number system

This number system uses sixteen digits and sixteen alphabets.

For example – 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and alphabets like a,b,c,d,e,f along with the base 16. 

In the hexadecimal number system the alphabets a,b,c,d,e,f means the same as 10-15 which are used in the decimal system. Hexadecimal is often used to reduce and cut down the huge binary numbers of computers. 

International number system

This might be a little different than what we know from the Indian numbering system. The international number system is also known as the international numeral system. In this system, the numbers are presented in groups. These groups are the ways by which we understand and learn the big number figures. 

The difference between the international and Indian numeral systems is how the commas are put in between the figures. The commas make all the difference here. The groups in the international number system are split into ones, thousands, millions, and then billions. 

Conclusion –

The numbering system is the core of mathematics. Without it, one can never comprehend what math is and how to solve the daily basic math problem. A number system is basic and tells us what value a number holds in a respective figure or sum. 

A number system denotes what we mean by octal, Hexa, decimal, and binary systems. These types of number systems sum up all there is to understand and figure out in numbers. The binary system is a specialized computer language that helps to read computer signs. Whereas the decimal system is the normal man-made purpose.