Ask a New Question
Menu

There are several examples in the world where we encode crucial information using letters and numbers.

The proteins in our body can be encoded by the individual amino acids that form them (“NLYTIQ…”), and those amino acid chains can be encoded by the DNA bases that form them (“TTCGATATC…”).

Every geographic area has its own telephone area code to help route the connection for long distance calls. For example, the state of Vermont has the area code 802.

The McDonald’s menu assigns number codes to several of its most popular meals to simplify the ordering process. Number 1 is a Big Mac and Number 10 is a 10 piece chicken nugget meal.

Describe an example in your life where you encode information, or you use encoded information. Give specific examples of certain encoded values and what meanings they hold (ie 1 = “Big Mac”, 2 = “Cheesburger”, etc).

No coding in this exercise, just write down your answer to this question!

1 answer

In my daily life, one significant example of encoding information is my use of digital passwords. Each password I create encodes sensitive information that protects my online accounts and personal data. For instance:

  1. My banking app password might be encoded as "C@shS3cure!" which represents my intent to maintain security around financial transactions.
  2. A password for my social media account could be "P@ssw0rdFun2023," where the combination of letters, numbers, and symbols is designed to convey both a sense of humor and the importance of keeping my personal information private.
  3. Another example is my Wi-Fi network password, which I might encode as "HomeNet#1234." Here, "HomeNet" is a familiar term indicating it's my home network, while "1234" adds an element of simplicity and memorability.

Each of these encoded values carries specific meanings and serves the purpose of security, ensuring that only I (and those I trust) have access to the associated services. The mix of characters, numbers, and symbols is deliberately chosen to strike a balance between being easy for me to remember but hard for others to guess.