Boolean algebra is a mathematical system that deals with logical values and operations. Named after mathematician George Boole, it uses only two values: True, represented by 1, and False, represented by 0. This binary system forms the foundation of digital logic and computer science, making it essential for understanding how computers process information.
Boolean algebra has three fundamental operations. The AND operation returns True only when both inputs are True, like a series circuit where both switches must be on. The OR operation returns True when at least one input is True, like parallel switches where either can complete the circuit. The NOT operation simply inverts the input, turning True to False and False to True. These operations form the building blocks of all digital logic.