Array Data Structure

Last Updated : 04 Apr, 2024

An array data structure is a fundamental concept in computer science that stores a collection of elements in a contiguous block of memory. It allows for efficient access to elements using indices and is widely used in programming for organizing and manipulating data.

Array Data Structure

What is an Array?

An array is a collection of items of the same variable type that are stored at contiguous memory locations. It’s one of the most popular and simple data structures and is often used to implement other data structures. Each item in an array is indexed starting with 0. Each element in an array is accessed through its index.

Need of Array Data Structures

Arrays are a fundamental data structure in computer science. They are used in a wide variety of applications, including:

  • Storing data for processing
  • Implementing data structures such as stacks and queues
  • Representing data in tables and matrices
  • Creating dynamic data structures such as linked lists and trees

Types of Array

There are two main types of arrays:

  • One-dimensional arrays: These arrays store a single row of elements.
  • Multidimensional arrays: These arrays store multiple rows of elements.

Array Operations

Common operations performed on arrays include:

  • Traversal: Visiting each element of an array in a specific order (e.g., sequential, reverse).
  • Insertion: Adding a new element to an array at a specific index.
  • Deletion: Removing an element from an array at a specific index.
  • Searching: Finding the index of an element in an array.

Applications of Array

Arrays are used in a wide variety of applications, including:

  • Storing data for processing
  • Implementing data structures such as stacks and queues
  • Representing data in tables and matrices
  • Creating dynamic data structures such as linked lists and trees

Learn Basics of Array:

Array in Different Language:

Basic Operations on Array:

Easy Problems on Array:

Medium Problems on Array:

Hard Problems on Array:

Quick Links :

Recommended:



Share your thoughts in the comments