Backtracking in PROLOG Function of cut(!) operator in prolog

Backtracking in Prolog: Backtracking is a fundamental mechanism in Prolog that allows the system to explore alternative solutions when the initial choices lead to failure. Prolog attempts to satisfy a goal by executing the clauses of predicates in a depth-first search manner. If a clause fails, Prolog backtracks to the previous choice point and explores alternative clauses or variable bindings to find a solution.

Cut (!) Operator in Prolog: The cut operator, denoted by the exclamation mark (!), is a built-in predicate in Prolog that allows for control of the backtracking mechanism. When the cut operator is encountered in a clause, it has two main effects:

1. Commitment: The cut commits to the current choice, preventing backtracking to alternative choices that could have satisfied the goal. It effectively prunes the search space and restricts further exploration.
2. Reducing Redundant Solutions: The cut can be used strategically to eliminate redundant or unwanted solutions. By carefully placing the cut operator in the appropriate clauses, you can guide Prolog to find specific solutions and avoid unnecessary backtracking.

Here’s an example to illustrate the use of the cut operator in Prolog:

parent(john, mary).
parent(john, peter).
parent(john, ann).
parent(mary, tom).
parent(mary, lisa).

sibling(X, Y) :-
    parent(Z, X),
    parent(Z, Y),
    X \= Y.

query :- sibling(X, Y), !, write(X), write(' and '), write(Y), write(' are siblings.'), nl.

In this example, the sibling/2 predicate finds pairs of siblings based on the parent/2 relationship. The cut operator is used after the first sibling/2 clause. By using the cut, Prolog commits to the first choice and prevents backtracking to explore alternative solutions. This ensures that only one pair of siblings is reported for a given query.

When executing the ‘query‘ goal, Prolog will find the first solution for sibling pairs and then stop searching for additional solutions due to the cut operator.

It’s important to use the cut operator judiciously since its improper or excessive use can lead to unexpected behavior or loss of desired solutions.