What is the memory usage of a deque in Python?

What is the memory usage of a deque in Python?

In Python, a deque (double-ended queue) is implemented using a doubly linked list, which allows for O(1) time complexity for appending and popping from both ends. The memory usage can vary based on the number of elements and the overhead of the linked list nodes.

How does it compare to a list in terms of memory?

A list in Python is more memory-efficient for small datasets due to its contiguous memory allocation. However, as the list grows, it may require resizing, which can lead to higher memory usage. A deque, on the other hand, maintains a consistent memory overhead regardless of size.

Are there any specific use cases where a deque is preferred?

Yes, deques are preferred in scenarios where you need fast appends and pops from both ends, such as implementing queues, stacks, or breadth-first search algorithms.

What are the limitations of using a deque?

While deques are efficient for adding and removing elements, they may have higher memory overhead compared to lists for small datasets, and they do not support random access as efficiently as lists.