Which data structure is typically used to implement a priority queue?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which data structure is typically used to implement a priority queue?
Array
Linked List
Heap
Stack
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which data structure is typically used to implement a priority queue?
Step 1: Understand what a priority queue is. A priority queue is a special type of data structure where each element has a priority. Elements with higher priority are served before those with lower priority.
Step 2: Learn about heaps. A heap is a specific type of binary tree that maintains a certain order. In a max heap, the parent node is always greater than or equal to its child nodes, while in a min heap, the parent node is always less than or equal to its child nodes.
Step 3: Know why heaps are used for priority queues. Heaps allow for quick access to the highest (or lowest) priority element, making it easy to remove it from the queue. They also allow for efficient insertion of new elements.
Step 4: Conclude that heaps are the typical data structure used to implement priority queues because they provide the necessary efficiency for both insertion and removal operations.
