The Interactive Binary Lesson!

Learn how to count like a computer. This is a interactive lesson.

Enter your name to begin:

Part 1: How Numbers Work

Let's learn the basics with 4 "bits".

In our Base 10 system, we use 10 digits (0-9). The number 25 means:

(2 x 10s) + (5 x 1s) = 25

In Base 2 (Binary), computers use 2 digits (0 & 1). Each column is double the one on the right.

8s 0

4s 0

2s 0

1s 0

=

0

Click the bits! See how 1010 in binary is (1x8) + (0x4) + (1x2) + (0x1) = 10.

Part 2: 8-Bit Binary

Computers use 8 bits (called a "byte"). Let's try it!

128 0

64 0

32 0

16 0

8 0

4 0

2 0

1 0

Total:

0

Challenge: Can you make the number 65?

(Hint: 64 + 1)

Part 3: Binary to Decimal (Set 1)

What number is this? Type the answer. One attempt only!

Part 4: Binary to Decimal (Set 2)

Keep going! What number is this? One attempt only!

Part 5: Decimal to Binary (Set 1)

Click the bits to make the number. One attempt only!

Part 6: Decimal to Binary (Set 2)

Almost there! Click the bits to make the number. One attempt only!

Part 7: Challenge Puzzles

Final test! Answer these to prove your mastery. One attempt only!

1. What is the BIGGEST number you can make with 8 bits? (i.e., 1111 1111)

2. What would the next place value column to the LEFT of 128 be?

200

256

1000

3. Why do computers use binary (0s and 1s) instead of our Base 10 system?

It's easier for humans to read.

It's easy to represent with electricity (ON/OFF).

It's an older system than Base 10.

4. Find the Mistake: A student said 0001 0010 equals 18. What's the correct number?

Hint: What is 16 + 2?

18

20

10

5. What number comes next? 0010 (is 2), 0011 (is 3), 0100 (is 4), what is 0101?

Challenge Complete!

Well done, Student!

You've completed the Interactive Binary Lesson.

This is your 1st attempt.

Your final score:

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