NOR gate behavior with mixed inputs A two-input NOR gate has one input HIGH (logic 1) and the other input LOW (logic 0). What will be the logic level at its output?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: will output a LOW

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
NOR is a fundamental logic gate defined as the complement of OR. Understanding its response to different input combinations is essential because NOR is functionally complete, meaning any logic function can be built using only NOR gates.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Two inputs: A and B.
  • Input levels: one is 1 (HIGH), the other is 0 (LOW).
  • Ideal Boolean behavior is assumed (no analog thresholds considered).


Concept / Approach:
By definition, NOR performs NOT(A + B). The OR of 1 and 0 equals 1. Taking the NOT of 1 gives 0. Therefore, regardless of which input is HIGH, the output is LOW for this mixed-input case.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Compute OR: A + B = 1 OR 0 = 1.2) Apply NOT: NOT(1) = 0.3) Conclude: NOR output is 0 (LOW).4) Symmetry: the result is the same if A=0,B=1.


Verification / Alternative check:
Truth table snippet for NOR: inputs 10 or 01 → output 0; only inputs 00 → output 1; inputs 11 → output 0. This matches the computed result.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Output HIGH: incorrect; OR of mixed inputs is 1, so NOR must be 0.
  • Functions as an AND: gate identity does not change; behavior still NOR.
  • Will not function: digital logic gates function for all valid inputs.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up NOR with NAND; remember NOR is NOT of OR, while NAND is NOT of AND.


Final Answer:
will output a LOW

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