Calculating the number of states in power of 10's

Asked Jan 23 '13 at 05:35

Active Jan 23 '13 at 05:35

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This is part of a problem that was assigned to me. It might seem elementary, but I need a hint on how to start this problem.

I have 10 billion bits that can either be on or off at any time.

Assuming that $$2^{10} \approx 10^3 $$

Calculate the number of possible states of the brain in powers of 10.

asked Jan 23 '13 at 05:35

FireStorm

Let's start with a simpler problem. Suppose you have 17 bits. How many possible states are there? – Gerry Myerson Jan 23 '13 at 05:37
wouldn't it be 2^17 states? – FireStorm Jan 23 '13 at 05:40
Yes! So, now you can write down how many states with 10 billion bits, and then you have to turn that into a power of 10. Can you do that? or at least get started on doing that? – Gerry Myerson Jan 23 '13 at 05:45
Ya I think I got the idea now! I was way over thinking this problem. thx! – FireStorm Jan 23 '13 at 05:47
3

You should post your answer and accept it. For us, it gets an answer to the question. For you, it gets a check on your answer. We all win. – Ross Millikan Jan 23 '13 at 05:53
Since I'm below 10 rep can't post own question for 7 hours - - – FireStorm Jan 23 '13 at 06:20

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