Could you tell me which is correct and (if possible) why?
(1)
the earlier of A and B
or
the earlier of A or B

(2)
A and B, whichever earlier
or
A or B, whichever earlier

Thank you.

Sehen Sie eine Übersetzung

“Earlier” is a comparitive, and this word compares 2 things.
A and B = 2 things. (A + B)
A or B = one thing; choose A or choose B
Therefore, the earlier of A and B = correct.

Two possibilities are A and B. A + B = 2.
Choose between them based on which of them is earlier, and you MUST have 2 choices.
Therefore, this is the same as the answer above.

—Many people will tell you there is no difference. The distinction is a technical one, and most people would use the options interchangeably. But you cannot compare two things unless you have two things.