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A logical conjunction $T$ of literals is an implicant of a Boolean function $f$ if every Boolean valuation making $T$ true also makes $f$ true. Every term in a disjunctive normal form is an implicant of the represented Boolean function. To rule out a one-literal term, it suffices to find a false Boolean valuation of $f$ where that literal is true.

A truth table arranged so neighbouring cells differ in one Boolean variable, using Gray code order along each multi-bit axis. Opposite edges are also adjacent. A valid group contains all $2^k$ combinations of $k$ varying variables while every other variable stays fixed; it eliminates those $k$ variables and gives an implicant; covering the one-cells yields a disjunctive normal form. The method is associated with Maurice Karnaugh.

The given logical implication is false exactly when $A=B$ and $C\ne D$. For every literal on $A,B,C,D$, there is such a false Boolean valuation making that literal true. For a prescribed value of $A$ or $B$, give the other the same value and choose $C\ne D$. For a prescribed value of $C$ or $D$, give the other the opposite value and choose $A=B$.

Consequently no literal implies the whole propositional formula: there is no one-literal implicant. If an equivalent disjunctive normal form contained a one-literal conjunction term $\ell$, then every Boolean valuation satisfying $\ell$ would satisfy that disjunctive normal form, contradicting its equivalence to the given propositional formula. This proves the claim. Even if auxiliary Boolean variables are allowed in the equivalent expression, a one-literal term on one of them fails too: fix any false Boolean valuation of the original four and set the auxiliary literal true. The word “conjunct” here refers to a conjunction term in the disjunctive normal form, not a factor in a conjunctive normal form.

An implicant from which no literal can be removed while preserving the implication to the Boolean function. A prime implicant is essential when it covers a one-input assignment that no other prime implicant covers.