Karnaugh map (K-map) purpose: Confirm whether a K-map provides a graphical approach to minimizing (simplifying) Boolean sum-of-products expressions.

Introduction / Context:
Karnaugh maps are a visual technique for simplifying Boolean expressions by grouping adjacent minterms to eliminate variables. They are widely taught as a stepping stone to Quine–McCluskey and modern synthesis tools.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We focus on minimizing sum-of-products (SOP) forms via minterm grouping.
• Variables typically range from 2 to 4 (paper), but 5–6 are possible with care.
• Adjacency is defined on Gray-coded map layouts.

Concept / Approach:
Each 1 cell on a K-map represents a minterm. Grouping 1s in powers of 2 (1, 2, 4, 8, …) removes changing variables from the product term, yielding simpler SOP expressions. K-maps also support POS by grouping 0s, but the statement’s focus on SOP is correct and common.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare to algebraic simplification or to a logic minimizer; results match for canonical SOP minimization.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Missing wrap-around adjacencies; making many small groups instead of fewer large ones; mixing SOP and POS grouping rules.

Final Answer:
Correct