When should I use a priority queue?

When should I use a priority queue?

You should use a priority queue when you need to process items based on their priority rather than their order of arrival.

Can you give me an example of where a priority queue is useful?

Sure! A common example is in task scheduling, where high-priority tasks need to be executed before lower-priority ones.

What data structures can implement a priority queue?

Priority queues can be implemented using heaps, arrays, or linked lists, with heaps being the most efficient.

Are there any downsides to using a priority queue?

Yes, the main downside is that it can be more complex to implement and manage compared to a regular queue.