B Is "ten" independent of the chosen number base?

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The discussion centers on the concept of number representation across different bases, particularly whether "ten" is independent of the chosen base. Participants explore how numbers like ##14_6## and ##B3_{16}## should be interpreted and pronounced, questioning if using terms like "ten" implies a reliance on base ten. There is an acknowledgment that while our language and learning often default to base ten, the actual values represented are independent of this system. The conversation highlights the confusion that arises when transitioning between bases and emphasizes the importance of clarity in numerical representation to avoid misunderstandings. Ultimately, the distinction between the concept of a number and its representation is crucial in mathematical discussions.
  • #51
There are 10 kinds of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who do not.
 
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  • #52
DEvens said:
There are 10 kinds of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who do not.

And those who didn't expect this to be a ternary joke...
 
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  • #53
DEvens said:
There are 10 kinds of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who do not.

etotheipi said:
And those who didn't expect this to be a ternary joke...
Which it isn't...
 
  • #54
Mark44 said:
Which it isn't...

It works better if both posts are read together
 
  • #55
Mark44 said:
Which it isn't...
Perhaps 10 interns should take turns interning the terns mentioned in this joke.
 
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  • #56
etotheipi said:
It works better if both posts are read together
I quoted both posts. Your statement about ternary doesn't make any sense.
 
  • #57
Mark44 said:
I quoted both posts. Your statement about ternary doesn't make any sense.

In binary, 10 is 2 in base-10. In ternary, 10 is 3 in base-10. So the full statement would be.

There are 10 types of people. Those who understand binary, and those who don't.

[Pause for the pained groan "yeah, binary 10 is 2" response.]

And those who didn't expect this to be a joke about ternary...

[Pause for people to go "Ternary? Base 3? Oh, ternary 10 is 3.
So there must be a third type of person.]
 
  • #58
@DEvens, yeah, I got it.

Anyway, I think we've beaten the topic to death, so I'm closing the thread. If anyone has anything of substance to add, send me a PM and I'll reopen the thread.
 

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