A bit is the most basic unit of memory, on the computer. It originated from the word Binary Digit. However, John Turkey first used the word bit in 1946. A bit is used to represent an individual binary digit. Therefore, it only represents values of "1" or "0". Bits are combined into groups of 8 cells, which represent a byte. Then, when the computer uses the true false values of binary, a bit physically becomes a transistor or capacitor in memory. It is stored on a magnetic spot on a disk or tape or through high or low voltage pushing through a circuit. 

The speed of the computer can be determined by the number of bits it can process at one time or by the number of bits it takes to represent an address in computer memory. A bit is a unit used to measure how much memory is needed to represent an address of a place in memory. Hence, the classifications 32-bit and 16-bit. This can be confusing because a computer is generally faster the longer the address that is needed. This is partially due to the amount of data that can be processed at one time, and the ability for it to process larger programs. 

Graphics use "bits" as the qualification for the number bits it takes to represent one point. A 1-bit image is monochrome. An 8-bit image supports 256 colors or grayscales. Finally, a 24- or 32-bit graphic supports "true color". In conclusion, the more bits you have the better your graphics look.

Over the years, bit architecture has drastically improved. This is illustrated in the picture below. 

In 1955, the compression of bit was 2,000 per square inch
In 1995, the compression of bit was 250,000,000 per square inch

All material and images on these pages are copyright Joseph,Ed. This page was developed for the Thinkquest1999 competition.