C Program to Convert Decimal to Binary

Converting numbers from decimal to binary is a fundamental concept in computer science and programming. This tutorial helps you understand and create a C program that performs this conversion. You will learn to write code and understand the logic behind the conversion process.

What is Decimal to Binary Conversion?

Decimal to binary conversion involves translating a number from the decimal (base 10) system, which uses digits 0-9, to the binary (base 2) system, which uses only 0 and 1. This conversion is fundamental in computer science since computers operate using binary numbers.

Algorithm to Convert Decimal to Binary

1. Initialize Variables: Declare a variable to store the decimal number and an array to hold the binary equivalent.
2. Input Decimal Number: Use the scanf() function to take the decimal number as input from the user.
3. Conversion Process: Implement a loop that divides the decimal number by 2, stores the remainder in the array (as it represents the binary digit), and updates the decimal number as the quotient of the division.
4. Display Binary Number: Print the array's contents in reverse order, as numbers are written in reverse order during binary conversion.

Code Example

Below is a C program that performs decimal to binary conversion using the described algorithm:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int decimal, binary[32], i = 0;

    // Take user input for the decimal number
    printf("Enter a decimal number: ");
    scanf("%d", &decimal);

    // Conversion process
    while (decimal > 0) {
        binary[i++] = decimal % 2;
        decimal /= 2;
    }

    // Display the binary number
    printf("Binary equivalent: ");
    for (int j = i - 1; j >= 0; j--)
        printf("%d", binary[j]);
    
    printf("\n");

    return 0;
}

Program Output:

For example, if you input the decimal 14, the program will convert and display the binary equivalent 1110.

Enter a decimal number: 14
Binary equivalent: 1110

Conclusion

Creating a C program to convert decimal to binary is an excellent way to learn about number systems and the foundations of computing. With the help of this guide, you can easily develop a program that performs this conversion, thereby improving your knowledge of basic computer operations and C programming.