Why Automata Theory? Systems like vending machines or self-service kiosks rely on defined logic. Humans respond intuitively, machines require explicit instruction. Automata theory helps design and understand this logic systematically.
Basic Terminologies Σ (Alphabet): Set of allowed symbols, e.g., {a, b, c} String: Sequence of symbols (e.g., "abc") Language (L): Set of valid strings over an alphabet 𝜖 (Epsilon): Empty string (no symbols) Q (State): A specific situation the machine is in
Why Study This Course? Apps like Instagram react to inputs using rules (finite automata). Every "Like", "Scroll", or "View Story" is handled by logic-based transitions. Understanding automata helps you build interactive, intelligent systems.
Finite State Machines (FSM) FSM = Simple robot that can be in one of many states. Input triggers transitions from one state to another. Examples: Traffic lights Elevators Vending machines
What is a Finite Automaton? Special type of FSM that reads sequences of input symbols. Accepts or rejects input based on state transitions. Core parts: Input alphabet Set of states Start and final state(s) Transition rules
Deterministic Finite Automata (DFA) One unique transition for each input in every state. Transition function: δ(Q × Σ → Q) Used for pattern matching, lexical analysis in compilers
NFA and ε-NFA NFA: Multiple transitions possible for one input. ε-NFA: Transitions possible without any input. Every NFA and ε-NFA has an equivalent DFA.