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Computer Science Science Fair Project

Hidden Patterns in Binary Sequences

Hard
Hidden Patterns in Binary Sequences | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
What happens when you convert counting numbers to binary and then flip or reverse the digits? You write programs on a graphing calculator to generate two new sequences from the natural numbers. The first sequence inverts every binary digit. Zeros become ones and ones become zeros. The result matches what you get from a subtraction rule in computer math. The second sequence reverses the order of binary digits before converting back to decimal. This one reveals surprising patterns. Some are obvious and some are hidden. You derive formulas to explain the patterns for both sequences across at least 1,000 terms.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that there will be patterns in binary sequences that can be explained mathematically.

Method & Materials

You will research the fundamentals of computing algebra, convert numbers to binary, generate sequences, observe patterns, and try to explain them.
You will need a TI-89 graphing calculator, paper, and a pencil.

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Results

After generating the sequences, the researcher noticed astounding patterns. Some patterns were obvious, while others required manipulation of entire sequences.

Why do this project?

This science project is unique because the researcher invented a new binary sequence and found many interesting properties.

Also Consider

Experiment variations to consider include exploring other binary sequences and trying to find patterns in them, or exploring other mathematical operations on binary sequences.

Full project details

Additional information and source material for this project are available below.
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