Question

The word 'Bit' is derived from

• A. binary byte
• B. byte
• C. binary digit
• D. digital byte

Hint:

Bit = Binary Digit. It is the smallest unit of data in a computer and can store only 0 or 1.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: A computer stores and processes information using the binary number system. The smallest unit of data in a computer is called a bit. Understanding the origin of the term helps in understanding how digital systems represent information.

Step 1: Understand the meaning of the term “bit”.
Computers work with only two possible states: \[ 0 \quad \text{and} \quad 1 \] These two symbols are known as binary digits because they belong to the binary number system.

Step 2: Analyze the formation of the word “bit”.
The term “bit” was formed by combining two words: \[ \text{Binary} + \text{Digit} \] When these words are shortened and combined, we obtain: \[ \text{Bit} \]

Step 3: Relate the term to computer memory.
Each bit can hold only one binary value, either: \[ 0 \quad \text{or} \quad 1 \] A collection of eight bits forms one byte. \[ 1 \text{ Byte} = 8 \text{ Bits} \]

Step 4: Select the correct option.
Since the word “bit” comes from “binary digit”, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Binary Digit}} \]