How Do You Simplify This Boolean Expression Using DeMorgan's Law?

In summary: The output of the XOR operation is 1 when the inputs are different and 0 when the inputs are the same. By adding an extra output that is the negation of XOR, you can see that any combination that is not x'y + xy' will result in the 1 output, while x'y + xy' will result in the 0 output. Therefore, the expression is simplified to x'y' + xy. In summary, the given expression can be simplified using DeMorgan's laws to x'y' + xy. This can also be verified using a truth table for the XOR operation.
  • #1
genu
22
0

Homework Statement



I'm trying to understand an example in the book. They're simplifying the following expression:

[tex]
S=z \oplus (x \oplus y)[/tex]
[tex]=z'(xy'+x'y)+z(xy'+x'y)'[/tex]
I don't get how they go to this from the above
[tex]=z'(xy'+x'y)+z(xy+x'y')[/tex]
[tex]=xy'z'+x'yz'+xyz+x'y'z[/tex]

Homework Equations



DeMorgan law: (x+y)' = x'y'

The Attempt at a Solution


By DeMorgan's law, negating that last term should give z(z'y'*xy)
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Draw a truth table for X XOR Y, and then put an extra output that is NOT X XOR Y, and you should see that anything that isn't x'y + xy' is x'y' + xy.

*Edit: An explanation

DeMorgan law: (x+y)' = x'y'

You need to use both of DeMorgans laws in this case:

1. (x+y)' = x'y'
2. (xy)' = x' + y'

You have [xy' + x'y]'. You need to think of it as [xy']' + [x'y]'. This becomes [x'+y''] + [x''+y'] by 2. You need to think of as [x+y']' + [x'+y]' and then as [(x+y') + (x'+y)]'. This becomes (x+y')'(x'+y)' by 1. Simplify a bit and it becomes (x'+y)(x+y') which becomes x'x + x'y' + xy + yy' = 0 + x'y' + xy + 0 = x'y' + xy.

The truth table is a quick way (in this instance) of verifying the math.
 
Last edited:

Related to How Do You Simplify This Boolean Expression Using DeMorgan's Law?

1. What is a boolean expression?

A boolean expression is a mathematical expression that evaluates to either true or false. It typically involves boolean operators such as AND, OR, and NOT, and uses variables and constants as operands.

2. Why do we need to simplify boolean expressions?

Simplifying boolean expressions makes them easier to understand and work with. It reduces the complexity of the expression and can make it more efficient to evaluate. Simplifying also helps to identify any errors or redundancies in the expression.

3. How do you simplify a boolean expression?

The first step in simplifying a boolean expression is to apply the basic boolean rules, such as De Morgan's laws and the distributive law. Then, you can use algebraic techniques, such as combining like terms or factoring, to further simplify the expression. The goal is to reduce the expression to its simplest form, using the fewest number of terms and operators.

4. Can simplified boolean expressions still be equivalent to the original expression?

Yes, a simplified boolean expression can be equivalent to the original expression. As long as the basic boolean rules are applied correctly and the final expression evaluates to the same truth value as the original, the simplified expression is considered equivalent.

5. Are there any tools or methods that can help with simplifying boolean expressions?

Yes, there are various tools and methods available to help with simplifying boolean expressions. These include truth tables, Karnaugh maps, and boolean algebraic calculators. It is also helpful to have a good understanding of the basic boolean rules and to practice simplifying expressions manually.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
9K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top