What is a binary heap and how does it work?

What is a binary heap and how does it work?

A binary heap is a complete binary tree that satisfies the heap property. In a max-heap, for any given node, the value of that node is greater than or equal to the values of its children. This structure allows for efficient priority queue operations.

What are the main operations I can perform on a binary heap?

The main operations include insertion, deletion of the maximum (or minimum in a min-heap), and heapify, which maintains the heap property after modifications.

Can you explain how to insert an element into a binary heap?

Sure! To insert an element, you add it to the end of the heap (maintaining the complete tree property) and then 'bubble up' to restore the heap property by comparing it with its parent and swapping if necessary.

What is the time complexity for these operations?

The time complexity for insertion and deletion operations in a binary heap is O(log n), while accessing the maximum or minimum element is O(1).