JavaScript BigInt Library

Working with BigInt

With BigInt, we can perform basic arithmetic operations just like we can with normal numbers. Here's an example:

let bigNum1 = 1000000000000000000000000n;
let bigNum2 = 2000000000000000000000000n;
console.log(bigNum1 + bigNum2); // 3000000000000000000000000n

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However, remember that mixing BigInts with regular numbers will cause an error:

let bigNum = 1000000000000000000000000n;
let regularNum = 5;
console.log(bigNum + regularNum); // TypeError: Cannot mix BigInt and other types

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BigInts also work with comparison operators:

let bigNum1 = 1000000000000000000000000n;
let bigNum2 = 2000000000000000000000000n;
console.log(bigNum1 < bigNum2); // true

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Limitations and Workarounds

BigInts can't be used with the Math object's methods. However, basic arithmetic operations can usually be used as a workaround. For example, you can't use Math.pow with BigInts, but you can use the ** operator instead:

let base = 5n;
let exponent = 3n;
console.log(base ** exponent); // 125n

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is BigInt in JavaScript?

BigInt is a built-in object in JavaScript for handling integers larger than 2^53 - 1.

Can I use BigInt with the Math object's methods?

No, BigInts can't be used with the Math object's methods.

Can I mix BigInts and regular numbers in operations?

No, mixing BigInts and regular numbers in operations will cause an error.

Conclusion

JavaScript's BigInt library is an incredibly useful tool when dealing with large numbers that exceed the safe integer limit. It offers the ability to perform arithmetic operations, comparisons, and even bitwise operations. While it has some limitations, such as incompatibility with the Math object's methods and regular numbers, understanding and effectively using BigInt can vastly expand your ability to work with large numbers in JavaScript.