Logic

Logic

Introduction to Logic

• Logic is an important concept in computer science and is fundamental to how computers operate.
• It involves principles and applications of Boolean algebra, named after mathematician George Boole.
• Boolean logic allows for the manipulation of logical variables, which only have two possible values: True or False.

Logical Operators

• Logical operators such as AND, OR, and NOT are fundamental to Boolean logic.

AND Operator

• The AND operator returns True if both its inputs are True.
• If either or both inputs are False, it returns False.

OR Operator

• The OR operator returns True if at least one of its inputs is True.
• It only returns False if both inputs are False.

NOT Operator

• The NOT operator simply reverses the value of its input.
• If its input is True, it returns False, and if its input is False, it returns True.

Logic Gates

• Logic gates are electronic components that implement Boolean logic using electrical signals.
• There are several types, including AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR gates.
• Outputs depend on the current inputs, and are used to make decisions within a computer system.

Truth Tables

• Truth tables provide a way to represent the outcome of all the possible inputs to a logical operation.
• They are essential for understanding the behaviour of logic gates and circuits.
• Correct interpretation of truth tables facilitates better programming and circuit design.

Application in Computers

• Logic is integral to many aspects of computing, from coding, where logical operators are used in conditional statements, to hardware design, where logic gates form integral parts of circuits.
• Ultimately, these principles allow computers to process complex tasks despite their binary nature.