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What is the space complexity of the optimal bitmasking solution that stores bitmasks and lengths for all words?

medium🪤 Complexity Trap Q6 of Q15
Bit Manipulation - Maximum Product of Word Lengths
What is the space complexity of the optimal bitmasking solution that stores bitmasks and lengths for all words?
AO(n + k)
BO(n^2)
CO(n)
DO(n*k)
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Identify stored data

    Bitmasks and lengths arrays each store one value per word, so O(n) space.
  2. Step 2: Consider auxiliary space

    Each bitmask uses constant space (26 bits), so total space is O(n + k) where k is word length for processing.
  3. Final Answer:

    Option A -> Option A
  4. Quick Check:

    Space is linear in number of words plus auxiliary for word processing [OK]
Quick Trick: Bitmask per word is constant space, total O(n) plus input word length [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Assuming O(n*k) for storage
  • Confusing recursion stack with space used
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL
  • Candidates often overestimate space by counting input size or recursion stack not present here.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT
  • Tests understanding of space usage in bitmasking approach
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