Inequality detection: The ________ logic function produces a HIGH output whenever its two inputs are unequal (different).

Introduction / Context:
Detecting whether two signals differ is fundamental in adders, parity generators, and error checking. The gate that signals “different” with a HIGH output is the XOR (exclusive-OR).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Two-input standard logic functions.
• Positive logic convention.

Concept / Approach:
XOR outputs 1 when inputs are different (01 or 10) and 0 when they are equal (00 or 11). Its complement, XNOR, signals equality. Terms like “exclusive-AND” or “inexclusive-OR” are not standard logic functions.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Implement using half-adder sum output; the sum bit equals A XOR B, which is 1 when inputs differ, further confirming behavior.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• exclusive-NOR: Equality detection (opposite of required).
• exclusive-AND / inexclusive-OR: Nonstandard or meaningless in common logic nomenclature.
• NOR: 1 only when both inputs 0; not an inequality detector.

Common Pitfalls:
Swapping XOR and XNOR meanings; assuming NOR/AND derivatives can serve as direct inequality detectors without additional logic.

Final Answer:
exclusive-OR