Boolean algebra (b'lē-ən) A form of symbolic logic, in which variables, which stand for propositions, have only the values "true" (or "1") and "false" (or "0"). Relationships between these values are expressed by the Boolean operators AND, OR, and NOT. For example, "a + b" means "a OR b", and its value is true as long as either a is true or b is true (or both). Boolean logic can be used to solve logical problems, and provides the mathematical tools fundamental to the design of digital computers. It is named after the mathematician George Boole. Also called Boolean logic. See also logic gate. |