How to Use the Ruby hex Method

09/25/2021

Contents

In this article, you will learn how to use the Ruby hex method.

Using the hex method

The hex method in Ruby is used to convert a hexadecimal string into its equivalent integer value. Here’s how you can use it:

Syntax

hex_string.hex

The hex method can be called on a string object that contains a valid hexadecimal value. It returns an integer that represents the value of the hexadecimal string.

Examples

hex_str = "1a"
hex_int = hex_str.hex
puts hex_int  # Output: 26

In this example, the hex method is called on the string “1a”, which contains a valid hexadecimal value. The method returns the integer value 26, which is the decimal equivalent of the hexadecimal value “1a”.

You can also use the hex method on a string that contains a prefix indicating the base of the value, such as “0x” for hexadecimal values.

hex_str = "0x1a"
hex_int = hex_str.hex
puts hex_int  # Output: 26

In this example, the hex method is called on the string “0x1a”. The method recognizes the prefix “0x” as indicating a hexadecimal value, and returns the integer value 26.

If the string passed to hex is not a valid hexadecimal value, it will return 0.

hex_str = "not_a_hex_value"
hex_int = hex_str.hex
puts hex_int  # Output: 0

In this example, the string “not_a_hex_value” is not a valid hexadecimal value, so the hex method returns 0.

#Ruby