Inverter behavior Under what input condition does the output of a NOT (inverter) gate become logic HIGH?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: the input is LOW

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The NOT gate (inverter) performs logical inversion, a cornerstone operation in digital systems. Understanding its truth behavior is essential for building more complex combinational and sequential circuits.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Ideal logic levels: LOW = 0, HIGH = 1.
  • Properly powered and within specified input voltage ranges.


Concept / Approach:
An inverter outputs the complement of its input: Y = A'. Thus, when the input A is 0 (LOW), the output Y is 1 (HIGH), and vice versa.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Input A = 0 → Output Y = 1.Input A = 1 → Output Y = 0.Therefore, output is HIGH only when input is LOW.


Verification / Alternative check:
Examine the one-row truth table: A | Y → 0 | 1, 1 | 0. This matches the definition of inversion.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Input is HIGH”: would produce a LOW at the output for an inverter.Power presence or absence does not define the logical state; without power the gate is nonfunctional, not logically HIGH.


Common Pitfalls:
Misinterpreting undefined or floating inputs; ensure inputs are tied to valid logic levels to avoid unpredictable outputs.



Final Answer:
the input is LOW

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