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Data Structures Types

A data structure is a specialized format for organizing, processing, and storing data, essential for efficient algorithms and software systems. They are classified into linear data structures (like arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues) and non-linear data structures (like trees and graphs). Specialized data structures include hash tables and heaps, which are crucial for optimizing data management and retrieval.

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19 views3 pages

Data Structures Types

A data structure is a specialized format for organizing, processing, and storing data, essential for efficient algorithms and software systems. They are classified into linear data structures (like arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues) and non-linear data structures (like trees and graphs). Specialized data structures include hash tables and heaps, which are crucial for optimizing data management and retrieval.

Uploaded by

shivamkumar230604
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Q: What do you mean by Data Structure? Discuss the types of Data Structures with examples.

Answer:

What is a Data Structure?

A data structure is a specialized format for organizing, processing, and storing data. It defines the
relationship between data elements and the operations that can be applied to them. Efficient data
structures are crucial for designing efficient algorithms and software systems. They help in data retrieval,
manipulation, and storage in an optimized way.

Data structures are broadly used in programming and system design to solve complex computational
problems and to manage large volumes of data effectively. Examples include managing databases, file
systems, indexing, and memory management.

Types of Data Structures

Data structures are generally classified into two main categories:

1. Linear Data Structures


2. Non-linear Data Structures

1. Linear Data Structures

In linear data structures, data elements are arranged in a sequential manner, where each element is
connected to the next.

a) Array

• A collection of elements stored at contiguous memory locations.


• Fixed size and type.
• Example:

int arr[5] = {10, 20, 30, 40, 50};

b) Linked List

• Consists of nodes where each node contains data and a pointer to the next node.
• Dynamic in size.
• Example:

1
[10|*] -> [20|*] -> [30|NULL]

c) Stack

• Follows LIFO (Last In First Out) principle.


• Operations: push, pop, peek.
• Example Use: Undo operation in text editors.

d) Queue

• Follows FIFO (First In First Out) principle.


• Operations: enqueue (insert), dequeue (remove).
• Example Use: Task scheduling in OS.

2. Non-linear Data Structures

In non-linear data structures, elements are not stored in a sequential manner. These structures represent
hierarchical relationships.

a) Tree

• A hierarchical structure consisting of nodes.


• The top node is called the root.
• Types: Binary Tree, Binary Search Tree, AVL Tree, etc.
• Example:

50
/ \
30 70

b) Graph

• A set of nodes (vertices) connected by edges.


• Can be directed or undirected.
• Useful in modeling networks, social graphs, etc.
• Example: City maps, social networks.

Other Specialized Data Structures

a) Hash Table (Hash Map)

• Stores data in key-value pairs.


• Allows fast access to data.

2
• Example: { "name": "Alice", "age": 25 }

b) Heap

• A special type of complete binary tree.


• Types: Max Heap (parent > children), Min Heap (parent < children).
• Used in priority queues.

Conclusion

Data structures are a vital part of computer science and software development. Understanding the various
types and their applications enables developers to write efficient and optimized programs. Selecting the
appropriate data structure is essential for achieving the best performance in data management tasks.

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