15.1.4. Partitioning the Array

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the purpose of the QuickSort algorithm?

   Hint

   Think about what makes sorting necessary in computer science.

2. 2.

   Define 'pivot' in the context of QuickSort.

   Hint

   Consider the role of the pivot in dividing elements.

3. 3.

   What is the time complexity of QuickSort in the average case?

   • O(n)
   • O(n log n)
   • O(n²)

   Hint

   Think about how partitioning contributes to the overall running time.

4. 4.

   True or False: The pivot in QuickSort must always be the median of the array.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the flexibility in pivot selection.

5. 5.

   How would you modify the QuickSort algorithm to improve its worst-case performance? Discuss a technique or change you would implement.

   Hint

   Consider how choosing different pivot strategies can influence performance.

6. 6.

   Implement QuickSort in a programming language of your choice and analyze its performance by sorting a large dataset. Discuss the outcomes and challenges you observed.

   Hint

   Think about edge cases and the dataset's order when testing performance.