How do Dijkstra's algorithm and A* algorithm differ?

What are the main differences between Dijkstra's algorithm and the A* algorithm?

Dijkstra's algorithm finds the shortest path from a starting node to all other nodes, while A* uses heuristics to find the shortest path more efficiently to a specific target.

Can you explain how the heuristic in A* affects its performance?

Certainly! The heuristic in A* estimates the cost from the current node to the target. A good heuristic can significantly speed up the search by guiding the algorithm more directly towards the goal.

Are there scenarios where Dijkstra's algorithm is preferred over A*?

Yes, Dijkstra's algorithm is preferred in scenarios where all edge weights are equal or when you need the shortest path to all nodes, not just one.

Which algorithm is generally faster in practice?

A* is generally faster in practice for pathfinding in games and maps due to its heuristic, but it depends on the specific use case and graph structure.