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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