Final answer:
The student is asked to use Boolean algebra to simplify a given function to the least number of literals. The process involves applying Boolean algebra rules such as the consensus theorem and simplification techniques to eliminate and combine terms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves using Boolean algebra to simplify the given function to a minimum number of literals. The function is:
F(N, M, E) = (N + M' + E') (N' + E').
To simplify, apply Boolean algebra rules like the consensus theorem which says that AB + A'C + BC = AB + A'C. In the given function, we can eliminate terms by using the consensus theorem and other simplifications. The step by step process would look like the following:
1. Apply the distributive law to expand the function.
2. Cancel terms that appear in both their normal and complemented form, using the rule A + A' = 1 and A1 = A.
3. Combine terms that are the same.
After simplifying, you should be left with a function of fewer literals, and verify if the result makes logical sense.