What is the main difference between a logic gate and a flip-flop?

The main distinction lies in their functionality and purpose in digital circuits. Logic gates are fundamental building blocks that perform basic logical functions such as AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR. These functions operate on one or more binary inputs to produce a single binary output, making logic gates essential for creating complex digital systems.

In contrast, flip-flops are specialized memory components that can store binary data. They are used to maintain a state (either 0 or 1) until changed by a triggering event, making them crucial for data storage and timing applications in sequential circuits.

Thus, the identification of logic gates as performing basic logical functions accurately captures their role in digital electronics, distinguishing them from flip-flops, which serve a different purpose related to data storage and state retention.