4.1.8

Binary Addition

Test yourself

Binary Addition

We can add two binary numbers in exactly the same way as denary numbers.

Illustrative background for Adding two digitsIllustrative background for Adding two digits ?? "content

Adding two digits

  • If we add 0 + 0 we get 0.
  • If we add 1 + 0 (or 0 + 1) we get 1.
  • If we add 1 + 1, then we cannot use the symbol 2. So we need to carry the 1 and put 0 in the current place.
Illustrative background for Adding in a third bitIllustrative background for Adding in a third bit ?? "content

Adding in a third bit

  • It might be the case that we have 1 + 1 and also a 1 carried over from the previous column.
  • If this is the case, then we carry the 1 and have 1 left over.
    • So we carry 1 and put 1 in the current place.
Illustrative background for Overflow errorsIllustrative background for Overflow errors ?? "content

Overflow errors

  • Binary numbers are stored as a fixed length.
  • If a number is carried past the last place column, then this is called an overflow error.
  • Overflow errors can lead to inaccurate results and software crashes.

Jump to other topics

1Components of a Computer

2Software & Software Development

3Exchanging Data

4Data Types, Data Structures & Algorithms

5Legal, Moral, Cultural & Ethical Issues

6Elements of Computational Thinking

6.1Thinking Abstractly

6.2Thinking Ahead

6.3Thinking Procedurally

6.4Thinking Logically

6.5Thinking Concurrently

7Problem Solving & Programming

8Algorithms

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium