What numbering system uses a base of 16?

The numbering system that utilizes a base of 16 is known as the hexadecimal system. In the hexadecimal system, numbers are represented using sixteen distinct symbols: the digits 0 through 9 represent values zero to nine, and the letters A through F represent values ten to fifteen. This system is particularly useful in computing and digital electronics, as it allows for a more compact representation of binary values. Since each digit in hexadecimal corresponds to four binary digits (bits), it is often used in programming and memory addressing.

In contrast, the binary system is based on base 2, using only the digits 0 and 1. The decimal system operates on base 10, using digits from 0 to 9, which is the most commonly used number system in everyday life. The octal system, employing a base of 8, uses digits from 0 to 7. Each of these other numbering systems serves different purposes and contexts, but the hexadecimal system specifically relates to a base of 16.