Explain the concept of an accepting state in automata theory.

Explain the concept of an accepting state in automata theory.

In automata theory, an accepting state refers to a state in a finite automaton where the machine reaches after processing a sequence of inputs. It signifies that the input string has been successfully recognized or accepted by the automaton. When the automaton enters an accepting state, it indicates that the input string satisfies the specified criteria or language defined by the automaton. Conversely, if the automaton does not reach an accepting state after processing the input string, it implies that the string does not belong to the language recognized by the automaton. Accepting states play a crucial role in determining the acceptance or rejection of input strings in automata theory.