How does the XOR operation function?

The XOR (exclusive OR) operation is designed to compare two bits and produce a result based on their differences. Specifically, it returns a 1 when the bits being compared are different. In contrast, if the bits are the same, XOR returns a 0.

For example, if you were to apply XOR to the bits 0 and 1, the result would be 1, indicating that the bits are different. Conversely, if you apply it to the bits 1 and 1, the result would be 0, signifying that the bits are the same. This property of XOR makes it extremely useful in various digital logic applications and error detection systems, where distinguishing between different states is crucial.

The other options provide misleading descriptions of the XOR operation's behavior. For instance, the first choice incorrectly states that it returns 1 when both bits are the same, while the second one misrepresents the operation by suggesting it returns 0 when the bits are different. The fourth option mistakenly associates XOR with returning the integer value of the bits, rather than focusing on the specific output based on their differences. Thus, understanding that XOR specifically identifies when bits differ is vital to grasping its application in technology and computing.