(content:databases:data-information)=
# Data and information

**Data** refers to the text, numbers, dates or logical values that describe the
characteristics of the people, objects and processes of our world.
We consider **data** to be the low-level representation of values as bits and
bytes.

Examples of data are:
* "Jonathon"
* 3.0e8
* 190

**Information** implies labelling of data to give meaning, links to other data
to describe relationships and an organisation of links to provide structure and meaning.

Examples of information are:
* "Jonathon" the oldest living animal,
* 3.0e8 ms{sup}`-1`, the approximate speed of light (not the speed of Jonathon)
* 190 years, the age Jonathon was in 2022 (which would make him 191 years old by
  now)

```{image} ../../images/db/jonathon-01.jpg
:alt: Jonathon the Tortoise
:class: bg-primary mb-1
:width: 600px
:align: center
```
The distinction between data and information is important because without the
context or label for a piece of data, it can be difficult to use or apply to
other solutions or areas.


## Sources

- https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2022/1/190-year-old-jonathan-becomes-worlds-oldest-tortoise-ever-688683
- https://www.space.com/15830-light-speed.html