RADIX POINT Meaning and
Definition
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A radix point refers to a specific location, commonly denoted by a period or decimal point, within a numerical format or numeral system where the fractional part or decimal portion of a number begins. It is a significant marker that separates the integral or whole part of a number from its decimal or fractional part.
In the decimal system, which is the most widely used numeral system, the radix point is typically placed to the right of a number's integral part. For example, in the number 25.78, the radix point is positioned between the digit 5 and digit 7, indicating that the number has an integral value of 25 and a decimal value of 78.
The radix point plays a crucial role in the representation and interpretation of numerical values in various numeral systems, including binary, octal, and hexadecimal. In these systems, the radix point separates the whole number part from the fractional component, similar to the decimal system.
In addition, the placement of the radix point determines the significance and magnitude of each digit within a number. A shift of the radix point to the right increases the magnitude of the number, while a shift to the left decreases its magnitude.
Understanding the placement and purpose of the radix point is essential for numerical computations, decimal conversions, and mathematical operations involving fractions or decimals in different numeral systems.
Etymology of RADIX POINT
The term "radix point" is derived from Latin. The word "radix" means "root", and it refers to the base of a number system, particularly in mathematics. The "point" in "radix point" represents the decimal point or the dot used to separate the integer part from the fractional part in a number. Therefore, the term "radix point" essentially refers to the point used to indicate the base or root of a number system.
