Bit Manipulation - Single Number (XOR Self-Cancellation)
What is the overall time complexity of using the XOR operation to find the single unique number in an array of size
n?What is the overall time complexity of using the XOR operation to find the single unique number in an array of size n?
medium📊 Complexity Q5 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
Step 1: Analyze XOR iteration
The algorithm iterates once through the array, applying XOR to each element.Step 2: Determine complexity
Each XOR operation is O(1), so total time is proportional ton.Final Answer:
O(n) -> Option BQuick Check:
Single pass, constant work per element [OK]
Quick Trick: Single pass XOR is linear time [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Confusing with sorting complexity
- Assuming nested loops increase complexity
- Thinking bitwise ops are costly
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Sorting or nested loops are common misconceptions increasing complexity
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests knowledge of algorithmic time complexity for XOR-based solutions
Master "Single Number (XOR Self-Cancellation)" in Bit Manipulation
Want More Practice?
15+ quiz questions · All difficulty levels · Free
Free Signup - Practice All QuestionsMore Bit Manipulation Quizzes