Understanding the Difference Between Array and Linked List in Programming

When it comes to programming, the main difference between an array and a linked list lies in their internal structure and performance characteristics.

Array:

• An array is a data structure that stores elements of the same data type in contiguous memory locations.
• Accessing elements in an array is fast and efficient using the index.
• However, the size of an array is fixed once it is allocated, which can lead to wasted memory if not fully utilized.

Linked List:

• A linked list is a data structure that consists of elements (nodes) where each node contains the data and a reference (pointer) to the next node.
• Adding or removing elements in a linked list is more flexible compared to an array, as it doesn't require shifting elements.
• However, accessing elements in a linked list may be slower as it involves traversing the nodes sequentially.

Overall, understanding the differences between arrays and linked lists is crucial in choosing the appropriate data structure based on the requirements of a particular programming task.