How do you convert decimal to binary?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the method to convert numbers from decimal (base 10) to binary (base 2). This involves understanding how to represent decimal numbers using only the digits 0 and 1.
Answer
1101
Answer for screen readers
To convert the decimal number 13 to binary, the answer is 1101
Steps to Solve
- Identify the decimal number to convert
Choose the decimal number you want to convert to binary. For this example, let's use the number 13.
- Divide the number by 2 and record the remainder
Divide the decimal number by 2 and record the remainder. This remainder will be a binary digit. Continue dividing the result by 2 and recording the remainders until you get a quotient of 0.
For 13: $$ 13 \div 2 = 6 \text{ remainder } 1 $$ $$ 6 \div 2 = 3 \text{ remainder } 0 $$ $$ 3 \div 2 = 1 \text{ remainder } 1 $$ $$ 1 \div 2 = 0 \text{ remainder } 1 $$
- Write down the remainders in reverse order
The remainders recorded from the last division to the first give you the binary representation of the decimal number. Write them in reverse order to get the final answer.
For 13, the remainders in reverse order are: $$ 1101 $$
To convert the decimal number 13 to binary, the answer is 1101
More Information
Binary, also known as base 2, representation is used by computers because it is easier to implement with digital electronic circuitry. Binary uses only two digits, 0 and 1, whereas decimal uses ten digits (0-9).
Tips
A common mistake is forgetting to write the remainders in reverse order. Always start with the last remainder recorded and work backwards.
