How is an array stored in main memory How is a linked list stored in main memory What are their comparative advantages and disadvantages Give examples of data that would be best stored as an array?

Answer 1

An array is stored in main memory as a contiguous block of memory locations, where each element is allocated a fixed amount of space based on its data type, allowing for efficient indexing. In contrast, a linked list consists of nodes, where each node contains data and a pointer/reference to the next node, allowing for non-contiguous storage. The advantages of arrays include constant-time access to elements and low overhead, while linked lists offer dynamic sizing and easier insertion/deletion of elements. Arrays are best for data that is fixed in size and requires frequent access, such as a list of student grades or a collection of RGB color values.