How does breadth-first search work in graph traversal?

Can you explain how breadth-first search works?

Sure! Breadth-first search (BFS) is an algorithm for traversing or searching tree or graph data structures. It starts at a selected node (the 'root') and explores all of its neighboring nodes at the present depth prior to moving on to nodes at the next depth level.

How can I visualize the breadth-first search process?

You can visualize BFS by using a queue to keep track of the nodes to be explored. Start with the root node, enqueue it, and then repeatedly dequeue a node, visit it, and enqueue its unvisited neighbors.

What are some practical applications of BFS?

BFS is used in various applications such as finding the shortest path in unweighted graphs, web crawling, and social networking applications.

Can you show me a step-by-step example of BFS on a graph?

Absolutely! Let's say we have a graph with nodes A, B, C, D, and E. Starting from A, we enqueue it, then visit A, enqueue B and C, and continue this process until all nodes are visited.