Why does accessing an element by index in an array take constant time?

Mediumdsaarrays

Array elements are stored in contiguous memory, allowing direct computation of an element's locationCorrect answer
Arrays always contain exactly one element
Arrays are stored in a random order every time they're accessed
Array access always requires scanning every prior element

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Array elements are stored in contiguous memory, allowing direct computation of an element's location

Explanation

Because array elements are stored contiguously in memory, the location of any index can be computed directly, giving constant-time access.

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Mediumdsaarrays

Array elements are stored in contiguous memory, allowing direct computation of an element's locationCorrect answer
Arrays always contain exactly one element
Arrays are stored in a random order every time they're accessed
Array access always requires scanning every prior element

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Array elements are stored in contiguous memory, allowing direct computation of an element's location

Explanation

Because array elements are stored contiguously in memory, the location of any index can be computed directly, giving constant-time access.

Practise 3 questions on this topic

Take Arrays & Strings — Timed Test (3 questions) — scored instantly, explanation for every question, no login.

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