What are the different types of priority queues?

What are the different types of priority queues?

There are mainly two types of priority queues:

1. Min-Priority Queue: where the element with the smallest key has the highest priority.
2. Max-Priority Queue: where the element with the largest key has the highest priority.

Can you explain how they work?

Sure! In a min-priority queue, elements are arranged so that the smallest element is always at the front. In a max-priority queue, the largest element is at the front. This allows for efficient retrieval of the highest or lowest priority element.

What are some common applications of priority queues?

Priority queues are used in various applications such as scheduling tasks in operating systems, managing bandwidth in networks, and in algorithms like Dijkstra's for shortest paths.

Are there any specific data structures used to implement them?

Yes, priority queues can be implemented using data structures like binary heaps, Fibonacci heaps, or even balanced binary search trees.