Question 1

What is cryptography?

Accepted Answer

Cryptography is like a secret code we use to keep messages safe. It helps us send information so that only the right people can read it.

Question 2

Why do we use cryptography?

Accepted Answer

We use cryptography to keep information private and secure, like when we send secret messages or bank details over the internet.

Question 3

How does cryptography work?

Accepted Answer

Cryptography works by changing a message into a secret code using a special key. Only someone with the right key can change it back into the original message.

Question 4

What is a key in cryptography?

Accepted Answer

A key is a special piece of information that helps change the secret code back into the original message. It's like a password that unlocks the secret.

Question 5

What is encryption?

Accepted Answer

Encryption is when we change a message into a secret code so no one can read it without the right key. It's like locking a message in a box.

Question 6

What is decryption?

Accepted Answer

Decryption is when we change the secret code back into the original message. It's like unlocking the box to read what's inside.

Question 7

What are codes and ciphers?

Accepted Answer

Codes and ciphers are ways to rewrite messages in secret ways. Codes swap whole words or phrases, while ciphers twist individual letters.

Question 8

What is a cipher in cryptography?

Accepted Answer

A cipher is a way of changing letters around to make a secret message. It helps hide what the message really says.

Question 9

What is a Caesar cipher?

Accepted Answer

A Caesar cipher is a simple way to hide messages by moving each letter a few spaces forward or backward in the alphabet. Like changing 'A' to 'D'.

Question 10

Why are numbers important in cryptography?

Accepted Answer

Numbers help create complicated secret codes that are hard to break. They are used in math problems that help scramble the message.

Question 11

What is a public key?

Accepted Answer

A public key is like an open lock that everyone can use to send you secret messages. Only you have the key to unlock them.

Question 12

What is a private key?

Accepted Answer

A private key is the secret key that only you have. It's used to open messages that others send to you using the public key.

Question 13

What is a hash function?

Accepted Answer

A hash function changes information into a string of numbers and letters. It's like a digital fingerprint for data.

Question 14

Why is cryptography important for the internet?

Accepted Answer

Cryptography keeps our information safe when we're online. It helps protect things like our messages, passwords, and banking details.

Question 15

How do websites keep passwords safe?

Accepted Answer

Websites use cryptography to mix up passwords, so even if they're stolen, they can't easily be used. This way, our passwords stay secret.

Question 16

What is 'breaking a code'?

Accepted Answer

Breaking a code means figuring out the secret message without the key. It's like solving a very tricky puzzle.

Question 17

What is symmetric cryptography?

Accepted Answer

Symmetric cryptography uses the same key to lock and unlock a message. Both people need the same key to swap secret messages.

Question 18

What is asymmetric cryptography?

Accepted Answer

Asymmetric cryptography uses two different keys: a public one for locking the message and a private one for unlocking it.

Question 19

How does cryptography help us send emails?

Accepted Answer

Cryptography helps scramble emails so only the right person can read them. This keeps our email conversations private.

Question 20

Can anyone learn about cryptography?

Accepted Answer

Yes, anyone can learn how cryptography works. It's like learning a fun new way to keep secrets safe!

The Mathematics Behind Cryptography - 20 FAQs Explained Simply