Dijkstra Algorithm Questions Medium
The distance array in the Dijkstra Algorithm is used to keep track of the shortest distance from the source vertex to all other vertices in the graph. It stores the current minimum distance values for each vertex. Initially, all distances are set to infinity except for the source vertex, which is set to 0.
During the algorithm's execution, the distance array is updated as the algorithm explores the graph. It is used to determine the next vertex to visit based on the minimum distance value. The algorithm selects the vertex with the smallest distance from the distance array and explores its neighboring vertices.
As the algorithm progresses, it updates the distance array by comparing the current distance value with the sum of the distance from the selected vertex to its neighboring vertices. If the sum is smaller, the distance array is updated with the new minimum distance value.
The distance array plays a crucial role in the Dijkstra Algorithm as it helps in finding the shortest path from the source vertex to all other vertices in the graph. It allows the algorithm to keep track of the minimum distances and make informed decisions on which vertices to visit next.