6.2.1. Definition of Worst Case

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does input size refer to in algorithm analysis?

   Hint

   Think about how inputs shape the algorithm's performance.

2. 2.

   Define what is meant by the worst-case scenario for an algorithm.

   Hint

   Consider situations where things take the longest.

3. 3.

   What does the term 'worst-case' refer to in algorithm performance?

   • A scenario with minimal data
   • The maximum time the algorithm may take
   • The average time for all inputs
   • A rare input case

   Hint

   No hint provided

4. 4.

   True or False: The input size for algorithms is always a simple count of items.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   No hint provided

5. 5.

   Design an algorithm for searching an element within a sorted array and compare its worst case with that of an unsorted array. Discuss efficiency implications.

   Hint

   Think about how sorting changes the search strategy significantly.

6. 6.

   Given an algorithm with an average case complexity of O(n log n) but a worst case of O(n^2), analyze upon which scenarios you would choose to implement this algorithm.

   Hint

   Evaluate common case scenarios versus potential bottlenecks.