Let me introduce you to the decimal system.
Human-Readable Numbers
We, humans, most commonly use the Decimal (DEC) system for representing numbers. This system uses base 10, which means it is based on 10 digits: 0 through 9. The numbers we use daily are all expressed in this system.
Take the number 356 as an example — it contains the following parts:
- Hundreds: Where the value is 3 (representing 300)
- Tens: Where the value is 5 (representing 50)
- Ones: Where the value is 6 (representing 6)
Mathematically, this is expressed as:
356 = (3 * 10^2) + (5 * 10^1) + (6 * 10^0)This shows that the position of each digit determines its value, with each place representing a power of 10.
More About the Decimal System
The decimal system is not only widely used in daily life but also forms the foundation for many mathematical operations and concepts. It is deeply ingrained in our culture and language, making it a natural choice for counting and performing arithmetic.
While it is by far the most common, other numeral systems, such as binary (base 2) and hexadecimal (base 16), are used in specific fields like computer science and programming. Understanding the decimal system, however, provides a solid base for learning and using these other systems.
Summary
There isn’t much more to say about the numbering system you’re already familiar with from your early years. You’ve known the decimal system by heart for a long time, so let’s not waste more time and continue to the next lesson.