Western Governors University (WGU) ICSC2100 C949 Data Structures and Algorithms I Practice Exam

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In a hash table, what does the term "bucket" refer to?

A linked list structure

A fixed-size array slot

A memory allocation unit

A container for hash collisions

In the context of a hash table, the term "bucket" refers to a container that can hold multiple items that have been hashed to the same index, particularly in the case of hash collisions. When two or more keys produce the same hash value, they are placed in the same bucket, regardless of whether the bucket is implemented as a linked list, array, or another data structure. This bucket effectively resolves the problem of collisions by grouping these items together so that they can still be retrieved efficiently, although additional steps may be necessary to find a specific key within that bucket. This ensures that the hash table can maintain its efficiency even when different keys hash to the same index.

By understanding this concept, it's clear that buckets play a crucial role in the functionality of hash tables, enabling them to store and manage data effectively despite the potential for collisions.

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