Lists of the Powers of 2, 8 and 16

=== by Bob Sutherland ===

Please read my web page A Quick Review of Powers, Exponents and Scientific Notation if you need help with any of the vocabulary or math symbols.

The binary number system is based on the powers of 2. The octal number system is based on the powers of 8. The hexadecimal number system is based on the powers of 16. Many technical specifications in the design of computers are based on these three number systems and the following charts.

This web page contains six charts. Go to End↓

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Powers of 2 : 2n

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2n - 1

One less than a power of 2. These numbers often appear as a maximum size in computer technical specifications.

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Powers of 8 : 8n

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8n - 1

One less than a power of 8. These numbers often appear as a maximum size in computer technical specifications.

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Powers of 16 : 16n

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16n - 1

One less than a power of 16. These numbers often appear as a maximum size in computer technical specifications.