Numeric

Numeric is an adjective that relates to numbers, quantities, and the representation or processing of numerical data. In mathematics, it denotes properties and operations that pertain to numbers. In computing, numeric data refers to values that can be interpreted as numbers, as opposed to text or symbols.

Numeric systems describe how numbers are represented. The most common system is decimal, base-10, using digits 0 through 9. Other positional systems include binary (base-2), octal (base-8), and hexadecimal (base-16), which are widely used in computing. In any positional system, the value of a numeral depends on both its digits and their positions.

Numeric types in programming languages categorize data that represents numbers. Typical types include integers (whole numbers) and floating-point numbers (real numbers with fractional parts). Some languages offer decimal or fixed-point types for exact financial calculations, as well as rational or complex number types. The choice of type affects precision, range, and performance.

Numerical methods, or numerical analysis, study algorithms for approximating mathematical problems where exact solutions are difficult or impossible. Common topics include solving linear and nonlinear systems, numerical differentiation and integration, interpolation, and eigenvalue problems. Issues such as rounding errors, precision limits, overflow, and cancellation must be managed to ensure reliable results.

Applications of numeric concepts span science, engineering, finance, statistics, and everyday computation. They underpin data analysis, simulations, modeling, and decision-making, providing practical tools for working with quantities and measurements.