What is Binary?
Binary (英：binary) refers to the following:
- Binary Representation: The use of only two symbols, typically “0” and “1”, to represent data. This is the fundamental way in which data is processed and stored in computers.
- Binary Data: Data that is handled by computers, encompassing all forms of data that are not plain text. This includes images, audio, video, and other types of data.
- Binary File: A file that contains binary data and cannot be directly edited with a text editor. Examples include executable files, image files, and audio files.
Detailed Explanation
- Basic Meaning: Binary refers to data represented in a system using only “0” and “1”. This is the fundamental format for all data within a computer.
- Binary Data: This term usually refers to data that is not text-based. Although text data is also technically binary, binary data commonly refers to non-text data like images, sounds, or program files.
- Binary File: Files that contain binary data and are not meant to be edited with standard text editors. Examples include application executables, image files, and other types of non-text data files.
Summary
When you encounter the term “binary,” understand it as:
- Basic Meaning: Data represented using “0” and “1”.
- Computer Data: Data types other than plain text.
- Binary File: Files containing data that is not directly editable as text.
In summary, “binary” is a crucial concept in computing, representing data formats and files that are handled by computers in various ways.