Question

If a computer hard disk has 850 gigabytes (GB) of memory, what is the storage capacity in megabytes (MB)?

Short answer

The storage capacity is 870,400 MB.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Relationship Between GB and MB

To convert from gigabytes (GB) to megabytes (MB), we need to know how many megabytes are in a gigabyte. By definition, 1 GB is equal to 1024 MB.

Set Up the Conversion Equation

Using the relationship from Step 1, we can write the equation: \[ \text{Total MB} = \text{Total GB} \times 1024 \] In this case, the total GB is 850.

Perform the Calculation

Substitute the value for gigabytes into the equation: \[ \text{Total MB} = 850 \times 1024 \] Now, calculate the result by multiplying 850 by 1024.

Compute the Final Answer

Carrying out the multiplication gives: \[ \text{Total MB} = 870400 \] (850 multiplied by 1024 equals 870400).

Key concepts

Gigabytes to Megabytes

When dealing with data storage, it's essential to understand how to convert between common units like Gigabytes (GB) and Megabytes (MB). These units measure digital information but at different scales. Gigabytes are used for larger data sizes, while Megabytes cater to smaller ones.
To convert Gigabytes to Megabytes, it's important to remember a simple rule: **1 GB is equal to 1024 MB**. This conversion factor stems from the binary system used by computers, where conversions occur in powers of two. Therefore, instead of the decimal system's 1000 MB per GB, the binary system uses 1024. This distinction can be confusing, but it's crucial for accurate conversions in computer science and technology.

For instance, if you have 850 GB of data, the conversion is straightforward. Multiply 850 by 1024 to get the equivalent MB amount:

• Calculation: 850 GB × 1024 MB/GB = 870,400 MB

Thus, 850 Gigabytes of data storage is equal to 870,400 Megabytes.

Memory Storage

Memory storage refers to the digital space available for storing data on a device like a computer, phone, or tablet. This space is crucial for saving files, installing software, and more. Understanding storage measurements is key to managing your device's memory efficiently.
Typically, storage is measured using units such as Bytes, Kilobytes (KB), Megabytes (MB), Gigabytes (GB), and Terabytes (TB). These units represent the amount of data that can be held, ranging from small text files to large video files or applications.

Memory storage can be used in several contexts:

• Personal Devices: Storing photos, videos, and apps.
• Enterprise Storage: Servers and cloud solutions.
• External Devices: USB drives and external hard drives.

By understanding these units, especially GB and MB, managing digital content better becomes possible. You can decide how much storage you need based on the type and amount of data you use.

Mathematical Calculation

Converting Gigabytes to Megabytes involves simple mathematical calculations. The core arithmetic operation used is multiplication, a fundamental math concept taught early in school. Multiplication helps in scaling numbers up when converting larger units to smaller ones, like from GB to MB.
Here's a breakdown of the mathematical steps in converting 850 GB to MB:
1. **Identify the Conversion Factor:** Use the known factor where 1 GB = 1024 MB.2. **Set Up the Equation:** Multiply the number of GB by the conversion factor to change it to MB: \[ \text{Total MB} = \text{Total GB} \times 1024 \]3. **Calculation:** For 850 GB, the equation becomes: \[ \text{Total MB} = 850 \times 1024 \]4. **Complete the Multiplication:** Perform the arithmetic operation to find the answer, resulting in: \[ \text{Total MB} = 870400 \]Understanding this calculation builds confidence in handling various data conversions and prepares you for more complex mathematical problems.