Algorithm Design Questions
The selection sort algorithm is a simple sorting algorithm that works by repeatedly finding the minimum element from the unsorted part of the list and placing it at the beginning. It divides the list into two parts: the sorted part at the left end and the unsorted part at the right end. Initially, the sorted part is empty.
The algorithm iterates through the unsorted part, finding the minimum element and swapping it with the leftmost unsorted element. This process continues until the entire list is sorted.
Here is the step-by-step process of the selection sort algorithm:
1. Set the first element as the minimum.
2. Compare the minimum element with the next element in the unsorted part.
3. If a smaller element is found, update the minimum.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the end of the unsorted part.
5. Swap the minimum element with the leftmost unsorted element.
6. Move the boundary of the sorted part one element to the right.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 until the entire list is sorted.
Selection sort has a time complexity of O(n^2), making it inefficient for large lists. However, it has the advantage of performing a minimal number of swaps, which can be beneficial in certain scenarios.