Meaning of binary (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Binary:

Binary is a term that refers to something being made up of two elements or units. The word binary comes from the Latin binarius which means "something that comprises two units or elements".

This word is made up of the word bini that indicates “two by two”, and the suffix -ario that means “relative to something”. Therefore, the term binary refers to a thing or system that goes two by two.

The word binary has different meanings, so its meaning will vary depending on the context in which it is used or the specific topic that is being referenced.

For example, the term binary is mentioned in the fields of computing or informatics when discussing topics about the binary system, binary file, or binary code.

Also, the word binary is used in the area of ​​music when we refer to the binary compass or to the stars when studying galaxies.

Binary system

It is an enumeration system that is used in the area of ​​computing and only uses the numbers 0 and 1 to expose numerical representations.

The binary system was first described in the 3rd century by the Indian mathematician Pingala, which coincided with the discovery of the number 0.

In the area of ​​computing the binary system uses only two numbers that are 0 and 1, and any number or number in the decimal system can be expressed or converted to the binary system.

In this sense, computers make use of the binary system and have two voltage levels for which number 0 is used for power off and number 1 for power on.

Binary file

A binary file is one that is encoded in binary code so that the computer can process it. For example, a photograph or an executable file by some software installed on the computer, these are all binary files.

Binary code

Binary code is that system of processors that has a computer or computer that uses the binary system.

Binary code allows encoding character strings or bit strings, therefore, it allows the use of any program or software installed on a computer that decrypts the binary system. Likewise, it makes effective the use of the software on the computer, translating the user's actions to be executed on the computer.

Binary compass

In the musical area, the binary compass is one that refers to a rhythm or a two-beat musical compass.