What are the different types of queues and their uses?

What are the different types of queues and their uses?

There are several types of queues, including FIFO (First In, First Out), LIFO (Last In, First Out), priority queues, and circular queues. FIFO is commonly used in scenarios like print jobs, while LIFO is often seen in stack operations. Priority queues are used in scheduling tasks based on priority, and circular queues are useful in buffering data.

Can you explain FIFO and LIFO in more detail?

Sure! FIFO, or First In, First Out, means that the first element added to the queue will be the first one to be removed. It's like a line at a ticket counter. LIFO, or Last In, First Out, means that the last element added will be the first one to be removed, similar to a stack of plates where you take the top plate first.

What are some real-world applications of priority queues?

Priority queues are widely used in scenarios like CPU scheduling, where processes are prioritized based on their urgency, and in algorithms like Dijkstra's for finding the shortest path in graphs.

How does a circular queue work?

A circular queue connects the end of the queue back to the front, allowing for efficient use of space. When the end is reached, it wraps around to the beginning, making it ideal for buffering data in applications like streaming.