What do binary digits (bits) represent in computing?

Binary digits, or bits, represent the most fundamental unit of data in computing, functioning as the building blocks for all forms of data representation. Each bit can hold a value of either 0 or 1, which corresponds to the two states of an electrical signal, often referred to as off (0) or on (1). This binary system is the foundation of digital technology, encoding all types of data, including numbers, text, images, sound, and video.

When we refer to the representation of data as distinct numbers, we're acknowledging that bits can combine to form larger values. For example, eight bits together form a byte, which can represent 256 different values. This capability is what allows computers to manipulate and process complex data types effectively. Unlike other choices, which deal with specific formats or speed measurements unrelated to the fundamental binary system, understanding bits as representations of data is crucial to grasping the basic principles of computing and data manipulation.