What are the differences between arrays and linked lists?

What are the differences between arrays and linked lists?

Arrays are fixed-size data structures that store elements in contiguous memory locations, while linked lists are dynamic and consist of nodes that point to the next node.

Which one is more efficient for inserting elements?

Linked lists are generally more efficient for insertions, especially at the beginning or middle, as they don't require shifting elements like arrays do.

What about searching for an element?

Searching in arrays can be faster due to their contiguous memory layout, allowing for better cache performance, while linked lists require traversal from the head.

Are there any scenarios where I should prefer arrays over linked lists?

Yes, if you need fast access to elements by index or if the size of the data is known and fixed, arrays are preferable.