Define the concept of a finite automaton.

Automata Theory Questions



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Define the concept of a finite automaton.

A finite automaton, also known as a finite state machine, is a mathematical model used to describe and analyze the behavior of systems that can be in a finite number of states at any given time. It consists of a set of states, a set of input symbols, a transition function that defines the state transitions based on the current state and input symbol, an initial state, and a set of final states. The automaton starts in the initial state and reads input symbols one at a time, transitioning from one state to another according to the transition function. It halts when it reaches a final state, indicating that it has accepted the input. Finite automata are used in various applications, such as pattern recognition, language processing, and circuit design.