Algorithm Discussion Response – 2

 Respond to the discussion about algorithms and their roles below using 150 words or more. 

 

At  the most basic level, an algorithm is simply a set of step-by-step  instructions that we utilize to accomplish a specific task. We use  algorithms every single day in our day-to-day activities: Brushing our  teeth, getting dressed, driving to work, making dinner. These daily  tasks which we complete are all composed of a set of instructions that  starts with a certain action and ends with a certain action.

In  the realm of computer programming, algorithms are utilized to enhance  the efficiency, effectiveness, and functionality of the programs we  create. Two such types of algorithms are searching algorithms and  sorting algorithms.

Sorting  algorithms are designed to sort an array of objects into a specific  order. Searching algorithms are designed to compare the elements of an  array to find a particular value within an array of objects. Just a few  examples are search engines, the sorting of a business’ online item  inventory, and sorting/searching a database of students who attend a  university.

There  are multiple approaches which people have taken to solve the issue of  sorting and searching an array of items. Two frequently used searching  algorithms are linear search and binary search. Three frequently used  sorting algorithms are insertion sort, selection sort, and bubble sort.

Each  of these types of algorithms have both pros and cons associated with  them. The main properties that we want to keep an eye on when choosing  an algorithm are memory usage, maintainability, and time complexity. It  is always best to assess the situation and to use discretion when  choosing which algorithm that we want to implement into our program.