Clarify the acronym: In digital logic, does SOP stand for “sum-of-powers” or something else?

Introduction / Context:
Acronyms in digital logic often encode structural meanings. SOP is foundational in Boolean simplification and hardware realization. Misinterpreting the acronym can cause confusion about canonical forms and impede correct minimization strategies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are evaluating whether SOP expands to “sum-of-powers.”
• Standard operators: + is OR (sum), * is AND (product).
• We assume conventional terminology from digital logic curricula.

Concept / Approach:
SOP stands for “sum-of-products,” meaning an OR (sum) of product (AND) terms, typically minterms or implicants. “Sum-of-powers” is not a Boolean algebra term; it appears to be a mishearing of “products.”

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
In canonical SOP, each product term corresponds to a minterm (all variables present, possibly complemented). Textbook definitions and K-map procedures rely on “products,” not “powers.”

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Correct: Would endorse an incorrect expansion.
• Ambiguous as stated: The acronym expansion is precise, not ambiguous.
• Cannot be determined: Standardized terminology provides the answer.

Common Pitfalls:
Hearing or reading mistakes between “products” and “powers.” Remember: products arise from ANDing literals; sums arise from ORing terms.

Final Answer:
Incorrect