Which number system is based on two symbols?

The Binary Number System is based on two symbols: 0 and 1. This system is fundamental in computing and digital electronics because it corresponds directly to the two states of a switch—on and off. Every binary digit, or bit, represents an exponential value of 2, which allows for efficient representation and manipulation of data within computer systems.

The decimal number system uses ten symbols (0-9), the hexadecimal system employs sixteen symbols (0-9 and A-F), and the octal system utilizes eight symbols (0-7). In contrast, the binary system's reliance on just two symbols allows for simpler hardware implementations and logical operations, making it the backbone of modern computing. By using combinations of bits, binary can represent any form of data, from numbers to text and images, within the architecture of computer systems.