21478

21478 is a number that appears in various contexts across mathematics, computing, and popular culture, often due to its significance in binary and decimal representations. In computing, the number is notable for its role in the limits of 32-bit signed integer data types. Specifically, 21478 is not a commonly referenced value itself, but it is closely associated with the maximum positive value that can be stored in a 32-bit signed integer, which is 2,147,483,647 (2³¹ − 1). This maximum value is frequently cited in discussions about integer overflow, a condition where arithmetic operations exceed the storage capacity of a data type, leading to unexpected behavior in software.

The number 21478 itself is sometimes used in examples or benchmarks, particularly in educational materials, to illustrate concepts like integer division, modular arithmetic, or binary conversion. For instance, when divided by certain numbers, it can produce interesting patterns or remainders that help demonstrate mathematical principles. In binary, 21478 is represented as 101001111111110, which can be useful for understanding how numbers are processed in digital systems.

Outside of technical fields, 21478 has appeared in niche references, such as in puzzles, trivia, or as part of unique identifiers in databases or coding challenges. Its inclusion in such contexts often stems from its mathematical properties or its proximity to the limits of standard data types. While not inherently meaningful on its own, the number serves as a practical example in discussions about computational constraints and numerical representation.