Identifying the gate with LOW output when any input is 0 Which gate always produces a LOW output for any case where one or more inputs are zero?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: AND gate

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
AND gates implement logical multiplication. In design practice, they are commonly used as enables that require all conditions to be true simultaneously. Recognizing the defining behavior of an AND gate helps when translating Boolean expressions into hardware and validating designs against truth tables.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Positive logic is used (1 = HIGH, 0 = LOW).
  • Two or more inputs may feed the gate.
  • Ideal gate with no timing hazards.


Concept / Approach:

The Boolean expression for an AND gate is Y = A · B · C · ... . A product evaluates to 1 only if every factor equals 1. If any input is 0, the product is 0, so the output must be LOW. This single rule fully defines the AND function across all input combinations.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Write Y = A · B · ... for the input set.Insert any 0 among the inputs: the product immediately becomes 0.Conclude that the output is LOW whenever one or more inputs are zero.


Verification / Alternative check:

Create a truth table for two or three inputs to visualize. The only row that yields HIGH is the row where all inputs are 1. Every other row includes at least one 0 and therefore produces 0 at the output, validating the definition of AND.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • OR gate outputs 1 if any input is 1; it does not guarantee a LOW whenever an input is 0.
  • NOT gate has a single input and simply complements it.
  • NOR is OR followed by inversion; its behavior is different and depends on all inputs being 0 to produce a HIGH.
  • XOR outputs HIGH when an odd number of inputs are HIGH; it is not defined by the stated condition.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing AND with NAND. NAND outputs HIGH unless all inputs are HIGH.


Final Answer:

AND gate

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