A Hoare triple is a formal notation used in computer science to describe the behavior of computer programs. It is expressed in the form P C Q, where P is a precondition, C is a command or program, and Q is a postcondition. This notation helps to specify what must be true before executing the command and what will be true after its execution, assuming the precondition holds. Hoare triples are essential in the field of formal verification, which aims to prove the correctness of algorithms and programs. They provide a framework for reasoning about program behavior, ensuring that certain properties are maintained throughout execution. This approach is particularly useful in developing reliable software systems.