3.1.2 - Efficiency of algorithms

Question 1

What is an efficient algorithm

Answer 1

An algorithm that solves a problem using the least amount of resources, such as time and space

Question 2

Why is algorithm efficiency important

Answer 2

Performs tasks faster and using less resources, which is better for large algorithms and reduce costs.

Question 3

How can two algorithms solving the same problem differ in efficiency?

Answer 3

One may use less storage or may be more time-efficient by using less steps

Question 4

Example of two algorithms that solve the same problem but may have different efficiencies.

Answer 4

Linear search and binary search both solve the problem of finding an item in a list, but binary search is more efficient for sorted lists.

Question 5

The efficiency of an algorithm is affected by:

Answer 5

Number of steps needed
Amount of memory or storage used
Type of algorithm used (e.g, linear or binary)