Boolean

A data type or variable representing a logical value that can be either true or false. It's fundamental to computer science and logic, enabling conditional statements, decision-making processes, and representing binary states. boolean variables are essential for evaluating conditions and controlling program flow. Named after George Boole, who developed the foundations of this type of logic, boolean logic underpins how computers perform comparisons, manipulate data, and ultimately function.

Boolean meaning with examples

• In Python, the `is_active` variable could be a boolean, determining whether a user account is active or deactivated. Functions like `if is_active:` rely on booleans to execute code blocks. These true/false values govern the behavior of systems.
• When creating a game, the `is_jumping` flag would be a boolean. Its `true` state would trigger the character’s jump animation. Its `false` would indicate the character is not jumping. This enables smooth character control.
• A database might use a `has_read` boolean flag for each item in an inbox. This makes it simple to know whether an email has been read, and allows filtering. Databases use these values to refine and sort their information.
• In electronics, the state of a switch is a boolean - on (`true`) or off (`false`). Logic gates, the building blocks of digital circuits, heavily rely on this binary system to process information.
• A program checking user input, like `is_valid_email`, uses a boolean return value to signal whether the input meets specified criteria. It directs program flow and indicates the successfulness of input operations.