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Identify the subtle bug that causes incorrect arrow count in some cases: ```python def findMinArrowShots(points): if not points: return 0 points.sort(key=lambda x: x[1]) arrows = 1 arrow_pos = points[0][0] # Bug here for start, end in points[1:]: if start > arrow_pos: arrows += 1 arrow_pos = end return arrows ```

medium🐞 Bug Identification Q7 of Q15
Intervals - Minimum Number of Arrows to Burst Balloons
The following code attempts to find the minimum number of arrows to burst balloons. Identify the subtle bug that causes incorrect arrow count in some cases: ```python def findMinArrowShots(points): if not points: return 0 points.sort(key=lambda x: x[1]) arrows = 1 arrow_pos = points[0][0] # Bug here for start, end in points[1:]: if start > arrow_pos: arrows += 1 arrow_pos = end return arrows ```
AUsing 'start > arrow_pos' instead of 'start >= arrow_pos' causes overcounting arrows
BInitializing arrow_pos with start coordinate instead of end coordinate causes missed overlaps
CNot handling empty input causes runtime error
DSorting by end coordinate is incorrect; should sort by start
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Identify arrow position initialization

    Arrow position must be at end of first interval to cover maximum overlaps.
  2. Step 2: Explain impact

    Initializing at start misses intervals overlapping after start but before end, causing extra arrows.
  3. Final Answer:

    Option B -> Option B
  4. Quick Check:

    Correct arrow position is interval end, not start [OK]
Quick Trick: Arrow position must be interval end, not start [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Confusing start and end coordinates for arrow position
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL
  • Candidates often initialize arrow at start, missing overlaps and overcounting arrows.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT
  • Tests attention to subtle initialization bugs in greedy algorithms.
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