Decimal to binary conversion The decimal number 188 is equal to which binary (base 2) representation?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 10111100

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Converting decimal to binary is fundamental for digital design. The standard technique uses successive division by 2 or decomposition into powers of two that sum to the target value.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Target decimal value: 188.
  • Powers of two near 188: 128, 64, 32, 16, 8, 4, 2, 1.


Concept / Approach:
Express 188 as a sum of powers of two, then place 1s in those bit positions and 0s elsewhere. Alternatively, use repeated division by 2 and collect remainders from last to first.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Pick largest power ≤ 188: 128 → remainder 60.Next 64 is too big; bit for 64 = 0; remainder remains 60.Use 32 → remainder 28; use 16 → remainder 12; use 8 → remainder 4; use 4 → remainder 0; bits for 2 and 1 are 0.Bits from 128..1: 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 → 10111100.


Verification / Alternative check:
Compute back: 128 + 32 + 16 + 8 + 4 = 188, matching the pattern 10111100₂.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 0111000 / 1100011 / 1111000: Different bit sums that evaluate to other decimal values, not 188.


Common Pitfalls:
Missing a needed power (for example, forgetting 4) or misplacing zeros when writing the final 8-bit form.


Final Answer:
10111100

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