Math Problem Statement

Simplify the following logical expression: (A ∨ B)' ∨ (A' ∧ B)

Solution

Let's simplify the given logical expression step by step:

Expression:

(AB)(AB)(A \vee B)' \vee (A' \land B)

  1. Apply De Morgan's Law:
    The first part of the expression is (AB)(A \vee B)', which can be simplified using De Morgan's Law. De Morgan's Law states: (AB)=AB(A \vee B)' = A' \land B' So, the expression becomes: (AB)(AB)(A' \land B') \vee (A' \land B)

  2. Factor the Expression:
    Now, observe that both terms (AB)(A' \land B') and (AB)(A' \land B) have AA' in common. So, we can factor out AA': A(BB)A' \land (B' \vee B)

  3. Simplify the Expression Inside the Parentheses:
    Notice that BBB' \vee B is a tautology, meaning it is always true (since either BB is true or BB is false). Therefore: BB=TrueB' \vee B = \text{True} So, the expression simplifies to: ATrueA' \land \text{True}

  4. Simplify the Final Expression:
    Since ATrue=AA' \land \text{True} = A', the final simplified expression is: AA'

Final Answer:

AA'


Would you like to see a breakdown of any specific part of the process? Or do you have more questions?


Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. What is the difference between De Morgan's laws and distributive laws in logic?
  2. How can you prove that ATrue=AA' \land \text{True} = A'?
  3. What is a tautology in logic? Can you give more examples?
  4. What would happen if we had a different logical operator, like ABA \land B, instead of \vee?
  5. How do we simplify logical expressions with more than two variables?

Tip: In logical expressions, look for common terms or patterns, such as tautologies (BB=TrueB \vee B' = \text{True}) and contradictions (AA=FalseA \land A' = \text{False}), which can help reduce complexity quickly.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Boolean Algebra
Logical Operators
De Morgan's Laws
Tautology

Formulas

(A ∨ B)' = A' ∧ B'
B' ∨ B = True

Theorems

De Morgan's Law
Tautology

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12