Boolean algebra is a type of mathematical logic that deals with true and false values, often represented as 1 and 0. It is used in computer science and electronics. Propositions are statements that can be either true or false. Simple propositions are basic statements without other statements within them. Compound propositions combine two or more simple propositions using logical operators like AND, OR, NOT, IF/THEN, and IF AND ONLY IF. Truth tables define the possible truth values of propositions connected by logical operators.