What is the definition of a NOR logic gate?

A NOR logic gate is defined as an OR gate followed by an inverter. This means that it produces a low output (0) when either of its inputs is high (1) and only produces a high output (1) when both inputs are low (0). The NOR gate effectively combines the functionality of an OR gate, which typically outputs a high signal if any of its inputs are high, with the action of an inverter that flips the signal.

In practical terms, if you consider an OR gate and understand that it outputs true (1) if at least one input is true (1), then when you run the output of the OR gate through an inverter, it reverses the output. Thus, the NOR gate outputs true (1) only when the OR gate condition that checks for any high inputs is not met (when all inputs are low). This makes the NOR gate a fundamental building block in digital circuitry, capable of implementing any Boolean function through combinations of NOR gates alone.

This understanding aligns well with the nature of binary logic and the way these gates function in digital systems, ensuring a foundational comprehension of their operation.