For a function to qualify as a hash function, it must exhibit which three properties?

A hash function is a crucial component in computer science, particularly in applications such as data integrity verification, cryptography, and database indexing. For a function to be classified as a valid hash function, it needs to meet specific criteria that ensure its reliability and effectiveness.

Uniformity refers to the property where the output (hash value) is distributed evenly across the possible output space. This means that similar input values will not produce similar hash values, helping to minimize the chances of collisions (where two different inputs produce the same hash value).

Security is an essential quality for hash functions, particularly in cryptographic contexts. A secure hash function should be resistant to pre-image attacks (finding an input that hashes to a specific output) and collision attacks (finding two different inputs that hash to the same output). This property ensures that the hash function can be safely used in security applications.

Stability indicates that small changes in the input produce drastic changes in the output. This characteristic is important for ensuring that any modification to data will lead to a completely different hash, providing a clear indication of data integrity.

These properties ensure that a hash function serves its purpose effectively in various computational applications, reinforcing its importance in both data structures and security implementations.