The Turing Machine

A Turing Machine is a theoretical model of computation that simulates how a computer processes information. It consists of an infinite tape divided into cells (like memory), a tape head that reads and writes symbols on the tape, and a set of rules guiding its actions based on the current symbol and state. Think of it as a simple, abstract device that demonstrates how complex calculations can be performed through a series of symbol manipulations, serving as a foundational concept for understanding the limits and capabilities of algorithms and computers.