Data Structures Questions Medium
A linear data structure is a type of data structure where the elements are arranged in a sequential manner, with each element having a unique predecessor and successor, except for the first and last elements. Examples of linear data structures include arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues.
On the other hand, a non-linear data structure is a type of data structure where the elements are not arranged in a sequential manner. In a non-linear data structure, each element can have multiple predecessors and successors, forming a hierarchical or interconnected relationship. Examples of non-linear data structures include trees, graphs, and heaps.
The main difference between linear and non-linear data structures lies in the way the elements are organized and accessed. In linear data structures, elements are accessed in a sequential manner, one after the other. In contrast, non-linear data structures allow for more complex relationships between elements, enabling efficient representation and manipulation of hierarchical or interconnected data.