In computer science, data structures are used to organize and store data in a way that makes it easy to manipulate, access, and update. Data structures can be classified into two broad categories: primitive and non-primitive data structures.
A primitive data structure is a basic data type that is built into a programming language. These data types are usually simple and represent a single value. Examples of primitive data types include integers, floats, characters, and boolean values. These data types are often used to create more complex data structures.
On the other hand, non-primitive data structures are more complex and are made up of one or more primitive data types. Non-primitive data structures can be classified into several categories, including arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs, and stacks, among others. These data structures are often used to represent more complex data and are used extensively in programming and computer science.
Here are some examples of primitive and non-primitive data structures:
- Primitive Data Structures:
- Integers: An integer is a primitive data type that represents a whole number. In most programming languages, integers can be signed or unsigned. Examples of integers include 1, 2, 3, -4, -5, etc.
- Characters: A character is a primitive data type that represents a single letter, number, or symbol. Examples of characters include 'a', 'b', 'c', '1', '2', '3', '$', '*', etc.
- Boolean: A boolean is a primitive data type that represents a true or false value. Examples of boolean values include true and false.
- Non-primitive Data Structures:
- Arrays: An array is a non-primitive data structure that is used to store a collection of elements of the same data type. Examples of arrays include a list of integers [1, 2, 3], a list of characters ['a', 'b', 'c'], and a list of boolean values [true, false, false].
- Linked Lists: A linked list is a non-primitive data structure that is made up of nodes that contain both data and a reference to the next node in the list. Examples of linked lists include a list of integers [1 -> 2 -> 3], a list of characters ['a' -> 'b' -> 'c'], and a list of boolean values [true -> false -> false].
- Trees: A tree is a non-primitive data structure that is used to represent hierarchical data. Examples of trees include a family tree, a file system tree, and a decision tree.
- Graphs: A graph is a non-primitive data structure that is used to represent a collection of vertices and edges. Examples of graphs include social networks, road networks, and flight connections.
- Stacks: A stack is a non-primitive data structure that is used to store a collection of elements in a last-in, first-out (LIFO) order. Examples of stacks include a stack of plates, a stack of books, and a stack of pancakes.