Conversion Method:
From: | To: |
Decimal fraction to binary conversion is the process of representing fractional decimal numbers (values between 0 and 1) in binary form. This is essential in computer science and digital systems where numbers need to be stored and processed in binary format.
The conversion uses the multiply-by-2 method:
Example: Convert 0.625 to binary
Details: Binary representation is fundamental in computing for:
Tips:
Q1: Why do some fractions have infinite binary representations?
A: Similar to how 1/3 = 0.333... in decimal, fractions with denominators not powers of 2 may have repeating binary patterns.
Q2: How many bits should I use?
A: Depends on your application. 8-16 bits are common for many applications, but scientific computing may require more.
Q3: Can all decimal fractions be exactly represented in binary?
A: No, only fractions with denominators that are powers of 2 can be represented exactly with finite bits.
Q4: What's the maximum precision this calculator supports?
A: The calculator supports up to 20 bits of precision to prevent excessive computation.
Q5: How does this relate to floating-point representation?
A: Floating-point numbers use this method for their fractional part combined with exponent representation.