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Binary Search

Binary Search - Technical Overview

1. Algorithm Description: Binary Search is an efficient algorithm used to search for a target value in a sorted array. It works by dividing the search interval in half and comparing the target with the middle element of the array.

2. Steps of Binary Search:

  • Start with two pointers, `low` at the beginning and `high` at the end of the array.
  • Find the middle element and compare it with the target.
  • If the target is equal to the middle element, return its index.
  • If the target is smaller, search in the left half; otherwise, search in the right half.
  • Repeat the process until the target is found or the search interval is empty.

3. Time Complexity: O(log n) as the search space is halved with each iteration.

4. Space Complexity: O(1) for the iterative version, as it only requires a few extra variables.

5. Stability: Binary Search is not concerned with stability as it's not a sorting algorithm.

6. Usage: Binary Search is commonly used in scenarios where the data is already sorted, such as searching in dictionaries, databases, or other sorted structures.