Module 5: Binary Numbers - Practice Flashcards

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers binary and decimal number systems, data representation concepts, and conversion steps as outlined in the CS316 Architecture & Organization module.

Data

Information that, in principal, is stored in 1s and 0s within computers.

Data structures

Specific sequences for data organization that allow computers to understand how bits of data are related and interpret them correctly.

Information

Processed data that has become meaningful to people.

Knowledge

Information that is understood and used by people for different purposes.

Data representation

The form in which data is stored, processed, and transmitted, typically using the binary number system in digital devices.

Bit

The most basic unit of data, representing either a 0 or a 1.

Byte

A combination of 8 bits that can represent any number between $0$ ($00000000$) and $255$ ($11111111$).

Word

A fixed-sized piece of data handled as a unit by the instruction set or the hardware of the processor.

Word size

Also known as word width or word length, it is the number of bits in a word and is a key characteristic of computer architecture.

Decimal numbering system (Base 10)

A system where the prefix 'deci' means 10, utilizing ten unique digits: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.

Power of Zero Rule

The mathematical principle stating that any number raised to the power of zero equals 1 (e.g., $10^0 = 1$, $1000^0 = 1$).

Binary numbering system (Base 2)

A system where the prefix 'bi-' means two, utilizing only two unique values: 0 and 1.

Binary Place Value

A system where each new digit has a place value that is twice ($2 \times$) as large as the previous digit.

Step 1 of Binary to Decimal conversion

Calculating the place value of each position of the binary number (e.g., $2^0$, $2^1$, $2^2$, etc.).

Step 1 of Decimal to Binary conversion

Finding the largest power of 2 that is smaller than or equal to the decimal number.