Binary arithmetic - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Binary arithmetic is a fundamental concept in computer science that involves performing mathematical operations using the binary number system, which is base-2. Unlike the decimal system (base-10) that uses digits 0 to 9, the binary system only uses two digits: 0 and 1. In the context of GCSE Computer Science, understanding binary arithmetic is crucial as it underpins how computers perform calculations, process data, and store information. Key operations include binary addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, which are carried out using rules similar to those in decimal arithmetic but adapted for base-2 logic. This concept helps students appreciate how computers handle everything from simple calculations to complex algorithms at a fundamental level.

in GCSE Computer Science, binary arithmetic is typically limited to binary addition only.