The binary number system is known to most people as a bunch of zeros and ones. In reality they are, but they are not just there for show and to confuse the non-computer people in the world. This system is used by computers as the easiest way to store data.

When you store data, for example a document with the letter ‘A’. This letter is not stored as ‘A’ it is stored as 1010 with any other binary bits and pieces that may show document type, format, and other things.

To convert to this number base the basic algorithm is used. Taking the base-10 number and dividing it by two. Take the quotient divide by two again and again until the number is 0. Take the remainders from each and put them together from the last one you got to the first one you got. Do not add just concatenate the numbers.

*Note the quotients are whole numbers so that there are remainders.

Example:

Number: 9

Binary: 1001

9 / 2 = 4 r1

4 / 2 = 2 r0

2 / 2 = 1 r0

1 / 2 = 0 r1