How do different data structures compare in terms of performance?

How do different data structures compare in terms of performance?

The performance of data structures can vary significantly based on operations like insertion, deletion, and access. For example, arrays offer O(1) access time but O(n) for insertion and deletion, while linked lists provide O(n) access time but O(1) for insertion and deletion at known positions.

What about hash tables? How do they perform?

Hash tables generally provide O(1) average time complexity for search, insert, and delete operations, but this can degrade to O(n) in the worst case due to collisions.

Are there any scenarios where a binary search tree is preferred?

Yes, binary search trees (BSTs) are preferred when you need ordered data and efficient range queries. They offer O(log n) time complexity for search, insert, and delete operations in balanced trees.

What about the performance of queues and stacks?

Queues and stacks both offer O(1) time complexity for insertion and deletion. Stacks are LIFO (Last In, First Out), while queues are FIFO (First In, First Out), making them suitable for different use cases.