What are the differences between linked lists and arrays?

What are the differences between linked lists and arrays?

Linked lists and arrays are both data structures, but they have key differences. Arrays have a fixed size and allow random access, while linked lists are dynamic and consist of nodes that point to each other.

Can you explain the advantages of using linked lists over arrays?

Sure! Linked lists are more flexible in terms of size, allowing for efficient insertions and deletions. They don't require contiguous memory, which can be beneficial in certain scenarios.

What about the performance differences in terms of time complexity?

Arrays provide O(1) time complexity for access, while linked lists offer O(n) for access. However, linked lists can achieve O(1) for insertions and deletions if you have a pointer to the node.

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

Yes, if you need fast access to elements and the size of the data is known beforehand, arrays are generally preferred due to their better cache performance.