Sujet : Re: Array vs. Linked List Traversal
De : ram (at) *nospam* zedat.fu-berlin.de (Stefan Ram)
Groupes : comp.archDate : 01. Aug 2024, 20:14:48
Autres entêtes
Organisation : Stefan Ram
Message-ID : <arrays-20240801201407@ram.dialup.fu-berlin.de>
References : 1
jseigh <
jseigh_es00@xemaps.com> wrote or quoted:
It's claimed that array traversal is faster than linked list
traversal. What would be the reasons for that?
Array traversal is hella faster than linked list traversal for a few
key reasons:
Cache Magic: Arrays stack elements right next to each other in
memory, so when you hit one element, the CPU cache scoops up the
neighbors too. It's like grabbing a whole burrito instead of just
one bean at a time.
Linked lists are all over the place, so you're constantly
reaching for new bites.
Pointer Drag: Linked lists are like following a treasure map -
you got to read the clue, then go to the spot. Arrays? It's more
like counting houses on Rodeo Drive - you know exactly where
everything is.
CPU Crystal Ball: Arrays are predictable, like traffic on the
405 at rush hour. The CPU can see it coming. Linked lists are
more like navigating Santa Monica on a holiday weekend - you
never know what's around the corner.
Speed Demon: Figuring out where to go next in an array is quick,
like zipping down PCH. Linked lists are more stop-and-go, like
cruising through Hollywood Boulevard.
Bottom line, arrays crush it for traversal 'cause they're all
about that efficient memory use, fewer pit stops, and a smooth
ride the CPU can really groove with.