What is the primary function of the read/write head in a Turing Machine?

Options

  • A. Only to read symbols
  • B. Only to write symbols
  • C. To read and write symbols on the tape and move along it
  • D. More than one of the above
  • E. None of the above

Correct Answer (Detailed Explanation is Below)

C. To read and write symbols on the tape and move along it

Detailed Explanation

  • Read/Write Head: Reads the current tape symbol and can replace it with another symbol.
  • Movement: Moves one cell to the left or right in the standard model.
  • Working: Its action is determined by the transition function.
  • Important: The head does not independently decide the next state.