FAQ
6. Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
Q: Is XOR the same as OR?
A: No, they are different. OR returns "True" if at least one input is "True," including the case where both are "True." XOR, on the other hand, excludes the case where both inputs are "True." Think of OR as "at least one," and XOR as "exactly one."
Q: Where else is XOR used in computer science?
A: Beyond cryptography and error detection, XOR finds application in areas like graphics programming, data compression, and even some types of artificial intelligence. It's a versatile tool that pops up in unexpected places.
Q: Can XOR be used with more than two inputs?
A: Yes, there are multi-input XOR variations. A multi-input XOR returns "True" if an odd number of its inputs are "True."
Q: Why is XOR useful in cryptography?
A: XOR is useful in cryptography because it's easily reversible. XORing a message with a key encrypts it, and XORing the encrypted message with the same key decrypts it. This reversibility makes it a simple but effective tool for basic encryption algorithms.