What are the differences between B-trees and binary search trees?

What are the differences between B-trees and binary search trees?

B-trees are balanced tree data structures that maintain sorted data and allow searches, sequential access, insertions, and deletions in logarithmic time. Binary search trees (BSTs) are also used for searching but can become unbalanced, leading to degraded performance.

When should I use B-trees instead of binary search trees?

You should use B-trees when dealing with large datasets that require efficient disk access, such as in databases and file systems. They are optimized for systems that read and write large blocks of data.

Are there any specific advantages of B-trees over binary search trees?

Yes, B-trees can handle more children per node, which reduces the height of the tree and improves search times. They also maintain balance automatically, ensuring consistent performance.

Can you give an example of a real-world application of B-trees?

B-trees are commonly used in database indexing systems, such as in SQL databases, where they help efficiently manage and retrieve large volumes of data.