The number base 2 is called binary - AQA - GCSE Computer Science - Question 1 - 2023 - Paper 2

A computer uses binary, which consists of two digits: 0 and 1, to represent all types of data. This system is known as the base-2 numeral system. Each binary digit (or bit) can be either a 0 or a 1, and these bits form the fundamental units of data storage and processing.

1. Data Representation: Each type of data, whether it’s numbers, characters, or images, can be encoded in binary form. For instance, in ASCII encoding, the character 'A' is represented as the binary number 01000001.

2. Memory Storage: Data is stored in memory using bits. A byte, which consists of 8 bits, can represent 256 different values (from 00000000 to 11111111).

3. Processor Operations: The CPU processes data in binary. Operations like addition, subtraction, and logical operations are performed on binary representations of numbers. For example, adding two binary numbers, such as 1010 and 1101, involves binary addition rules similar to decimal addition, taking care of carryovers.

4. Digital Signals: In communication, binary data is transmitted as electrical signals. A high voltage may represent a '1' and a low voltage a '0'. This method ensures accurate transmission of data without interference.

In summary, binary encoding is essential for computers to efficiently process, store, and transmit all forms of data.