Karnaugh map application A Karnaugh map (K-map) provides a graphical, systematic method for minimizing which canonical logic expression form most commonly used in two-level AND–OR implementations?

Introduction / Context:
Karnaugh maps (K-maps) are a visual technique for minimizing Boolean expressions by grouping adjacent 1s (or 0s) in a mapped truth table. They are especially popular for deriving compact two-level gate implementations with minimal literals and terms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We focus on two-level logic realizations.
• Canonical forms: sum-of-products (SOP) and product-of-sums (POS).
• Standard K-map grouping strategy is applied.

Concept / Approach:
For SOP minimization, K-maps group adjacent 1s into powers-of-two rectangles to generate simplified product terms that are then ORed together. Although K-maps can also minimize POS by grouping 0s, the most common teaching and usage pattern is SOP minimization for AND–OR implementations.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare the minimized SOP with an algebraic reduction or use a logic minimizer to confirm equivalence. Testing a few input combinations validates the reduced expression matches the original truth table.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Product-of-sums: K-maps can also be used for POS by grouping 0s, but the question asks which type is most commonly minimized in two-level AND–OR form—SOP.
• Exclusive NOR: XNOR is a specific function, not a form.
• “Those with overbars”: Overbars indicate complement; this is not a canonical form.

Common Pitfalls:
Failing to use largest groups; misreading wrap-around adjacency; and mixing SOP vs. POS grouping (1s vs. 0s). Careful cell adjacency and Gray code ordering are crucial for correct minimization.

Final Answer:
sum-of-products