A(n)________ structure employs an algorithm that converts the primary key of a record directly into a storage address.
A)hashing
B)indexed
C)pointer
D)sequential

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hashing is a data structure that employs an algorithm to convert the primary key of a record into a storage address. This technique uses a hash function that takes the key as an input and produces an index to access the data in constant time. Hashing is fast and efficient for large datasets with a highly random and distributed key distribution. In contrast, indexed structures require additional storage space and maintenance overhead to maintain pointers or index entries. Sequential structures imply a fixed order of records, while pointer structures utilize links or references to navigate between records. Therefore, hashing is the most suitable option to optimize access time for direct key-based retrieval.

A(n)________ Structure Employs an Algorithm That Converts the Primary Key