NOT operation definition: If a NOT gate has input A and output X, write the correct relationship between X and A.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: X = NOT A

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The NOT gate (inverter) is the simplest logic element that flips a binary value. Accurately expressing the relationship between input and output is central to building and analyzing basic and complex digital systems, from simple oscillators to microprocessor control logic.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Single input A, single output X.
  • Binary logic levels: 0 (LOW) and 1 (HIGH).
  • Standard Boolean notation where NOT means logical complement.


Concept / Approach:
By definition, an inverter outputs the complement of its input. This can be denoted several ways: X = NOT A, X = A', or X = Ā. The meaning is identical—X is 1 when A is 0, and X is 0 when A is 1.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Define X = NOT A.Truth evaluation: A=0 ⇒ X=1; A=1 ⇒ X=0.Thus the correct relationship is X = NOT A.


Verification / Alternative check:
Observe the inverter symbol on a schematic: an inversion bubble on the output depicts the NOT operation. Measuring with a logic probe will show output transitions opposite to the input transitions.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • X = A implies a buffer, not an inverter.
  • X = 0 would mean the output is always LOW, which is not a logic gate function here.
  • “none of the above” is invalid because X = NOT A is a correct and standard statement.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing overbar notation with subtraction or arithmetic; it strictly means complement.
  • Overlooking active-LOW signal naming, which sometimes reads as a “NOT” but refers to assertion level, not necessarily an inverter in the path.


Final Answer:
X = NOT A

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