What are the differences between searching algorithms?

What are the differences between searching algorithms?

There are several searching algorithms, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, linear search is simple but slow for large datasets, while binary search is much faster but requires sorted data.

Can you explain how binary search works?

Sure! Binary search works by repeatedly dividing a sorted array in half. It compares the target value to the middle element and eliminates half of the search space until the target is found or the search space is empty.

What about depth-first search and breadth-first search?

Depth-first search (DFS) explores as far down a branch as possible before backtracking, while breadth-first search (BFS) explores all neighbors at the present depth before moving on to nodes at the next depth level.

Which searching algorithm is the most efficient?

The efficiency of a searching algorithm depends on the context. For sorted data, binary search is very efficient. For unstructured data, hash tables can provide average-case constant time complexity.