Backtracking Algorithm and Data Structures

Front

What is a backtracking algorithm?

Back

A backtracking algorithm is a problem-solving algorithm that uses a brute force approach for finding the desired output.

Front

What does the term 'backtracking' imply in algorithms?

Back

It suggests that if the current solution is not suitable, then backtrack and try other solutions.

Front

What is a State Space Tree?

Back

A State Space Tree is a tree representing all the possible states (solution or nonsolution) of the problem from the root as an initial state to the leaf as a terminal state.

Front

What is the purpose of recursion in backtracking algorithms?

Back

Recursion is used to explore all possible solutions and backtrack when a solution is not suitable.

Front

What is an example problem that can be solved using backtracking?

Back

Finding all the possible ways of arranging 2 boys and 1 girl on 3 benches with the constraint that the girl should not be on the middle bench.

Front

What are some applications of backtracking algorithms?

Back

Applications include:

Solving a Maze

Searching a word in a matrix

Subset Problem

Hamiltonian Cycle

N-Queens Problem

Front

What is the significance of the 'expand' function in backtracking?

Back

The 'expand' function is used to explore further possibilities from the current solution.

Front

What is the first step in the backtracking algorithm?

Back

Check if the current solution is not a solution; if so, return false.

Front

What happens if a new solution is found in backtracking?

Back

If a new solution is found, it is added to the list of solutions.

Front

What is the relationship between backtracking and dynamic programming?

Back

If an optimal solution is required, dynamic programming should be used instead of backtracking.