What are the best sorting algorithms for databases?

What are the best sorting algorithms for databases?

The best sorting algorithms for databases include Quick Sort, Merge Sort, and Heap Sort. Each has its own advantages depending on the data size and structure.

Can you explain why Quick Sort is often preferred?

Quick Sort is preferred for its average-case efficiency of O(n log n) and its in-place sorting capability, which saves memory.

What about Merge Sort? When should I use it?

Merge Sort is stable and works well for large datasets, especially when data is stored on disk, as it minimizes disk I/O.

Are there any algorithms that are better for specific types of data?

Yes, for nearly sorted data, Insertion Sort can be very efficient. For large datasets with many duplicates, Counting Sort might be better.