Sorting Algorithms

Sorting Algorithms are essentially used to rearrange a collection of elements. Sorting is commonly carried out in arrays to display elements in a particular fashion that is required. Sorting of all sorts takes place against a comparison operator which acts as a threshold for the elements in question. The comparison operator dictates the final structure of the collection after sorting has been carried out.
In this article we will discuss Searching and Sorting Algorithms in Java in detail.

In-Place and Not-In-Place Sorting Techniques

Sorting is carried out in two different methods namely the in-place and not-in place techniques. In-Place sorting is when sorting is carried out without using any additional or external memory other than the array concerned. Two common examples of this technique are the Selection Sort and the Insertion Sort. Not-in-Place sorting, on the other hand, is when a technique requires additional memory (generally a flag variable) to complete rearranging contents of a collection. Merge Sort and Counting Sort are two examples of not-in-place sorting.

Searching Algorithms

Searching Algorithms are a method to check for an element or retrieve an element from a collection or data structure. As the name suggests, Searching Algorithms use an iterator or otherwise to individually check every element of a collection. Based on the type of search conducted, these algorithms can be broadly classified into Sequential and Interval Search.

Sequential Search

These search techniques involve starting from the first element and traversing the entire list until the required element is found. Therefore, it entails greater complexity.

Interval Search

Interval Search techniques are applied when one has to search an already sorted list. Therefore, depending upon the sort criteria, only a segment of the entire list is required to be searched thus making Interval Search much more efficient than Sequential Search.

Advantage of Using Searching and Sorting Algorithms in Java

A sorted list can be searched quicker than an unsorted one. Therefore both processes go hand-in-glove with one another to increase the efficiency of our program.