[Solved] Consider two approaches for Minimum Interval to Include Each Query:... When is approach (1) preferable over (2)? | Intervals

Intervals - Minimum Interval to Include Each Query

Consider two approaches for Minimum Interval to Include Each Query: (1) binary search with preprocessing intervals by length, and (2) sorting intervals and queries with a min-heap for active intervals. When is approach (1) preferable over (2)?

AWhen queries are online and must be answered immediately

BWhen intervals are very large but queries are few

CWhen intervals are small in number but queries are very large

DWhen intervals and queries are both very large and must be processed offline

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Analyze approach (1)
Binary search with preprocessing has O(n log n + m n log n) time, expensive per query but good if n is small.
Step 2: Analyze approach (2)
Min-heap approach is O(n log n + m log n), better for large n and m.
Step 3: Determine trade-off
Approach (1) is better when n is small and m is large, as binary search overhead is manageable.
Final Answer:
Option C -> Option C
Quick Check:
Small intervals count favors binary search preprocessing [OK]

Quick Trick: Binary search approach suits small n, large m scenarios [OK]

Common Mistakes:

MISTAKES

Assuming binary search always better or always worse

Trap Explanation:

PITFALL

Candidates confuse approach trade-offs, ignoring n vs m sizes.

Interviewer Note:

CONTEXT

Tests understanding of approach trade-offs and complexity scaling

Master "Minimum Interval to Include Each Query" in Intervals

3 interactive learning modes - each teaches the same concept differently

Try It Solution Trace

More Intervals Quizzes

When is approach (1) preferable over (2)?

Step 1: Analyze approach (1)

Step 2: Analyze approach (2)

Step 3: Determine trade-off

Final Answer:

Quick Check:

Want More Practice?