Switch analogy — series vs. parallel behavior Evaluate the claim: “The OR gate performs like two switches wired in series.” Decide whether this statement is correct or incorrect and relate OR to the proper switch wiring.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Physical switch analogies provide intuition for logic gates. Understanding whether an OR gate corresponds to series or parallel wiring prevents conceptual mistakes when sketching quick logic using switches or relays.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Switches are ideal and control a lamp or output node.
  • Active-HIGH logic is assumed for the basic analogy.


Concept / Approach:
In the standard active-HIGH analogy, an AND gate behaves like series switches: current flows only when all switches are closed. An OR gate behaves like parallel switches: current flows when any one is closed. Therefore, claiming that an OR gate is like series wiring is incorrect.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Series wiring requires both switches closed to complete the circuit → AND.Parallel wiring requires at least one switch closed to complete the circuit → OR.Thus the given statement mismatches the correct mapping.


Verification / Alternative check:
Construct a small truth table mapping switch states to lamp state for both series and parallel cases and compare to the gate truth tables; the parallel case aligns with OR.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The qualifiers about technology families or active-LOW do not change the standard mapping under active-HIGH conventions; inverting logic levels must be explicitly modeled to alter the analogy.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the AND and OR analogies; forgetting to specify active level (HIGH vs. LOW) when using switch metaphors.


Final Answer:
Incorrect

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