Bit Manipulation - Single Number III (Two Singles)
Which of the following problems CANNOT be solved efficiently using the XOR and partition by set bit approach used in Single Number III?
Which of the following problems CANNOT be solved efficiently using the XOR and partition by set bit approach used in Single Number III?
easy🔍 Pattern Recognition Q2 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
Step 1: Analyze the XOR approach assumptions
XOR approach relies on duplicates appearing exactly twice to cancel out.Step 2: Check problem constraints
If others appear thrice, XOR won't cancel duplicates properly, so XOR partition fails.Final Answer:
Option B -> Option BQuick Check:
XOR trick only works when duplicates appear exactly twice [OK]
Quick Trick: XOR cancels pairs, not triplets [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Assuming XOR works for any duplicate count
- Confusing single unique with multiple unique counts
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Candidates often think XOR works for any duplicate frequency, but it only cancels pairs.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests understanding of XOR approach limitations and problem constraints.
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