Explain the differences between a stack and a queue data structure. Provide examples of real-world scenarios where each of these data structures would be the most appropriate choice.

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Stack vs Queue: Differences and Real-world Examples

Stack vs Queue: Differences and Real-world Examples

Stack Data Structure

A stack is a last-in, first-out (LIFO) data structure where elements are added and removed from the same end.

Example: Browser history in web browsers. The back button navigates through the previously visited pages, mimicking the LIFO behavior of a stack.

Queue Data Structure

A queue is a first-in, first-out (FIFO) data structure where elements are added at one end and removed from the other end.

Example: Supermarket checkout lines. Customers are served in the order they arrive, representing the FIFO characteristic of a queue.

Real-world Scenarios

Stack: Useful in applications such as undo functionalities in text editors, function calls in programming languages, and managing system resources efficiently.

Queue: Ideal for scenarios like print job scheduling, processing messages in networking systems, and handling requests in web servers.

Focus Keyword: Stack vs Queue

Answer for Question: Explain the differences between a stack and a queue data structure. Provide examples of real-world scenarios where each of these data structures would be the most appropriate choice.