Binary search and linear search are two frequently used search methods for finding an item in a list or array. Both algorithms have benefits and drawbacks, and knowing the difference between linear search and binary search can help you decide which is best for your particular use case.

Linear Search

The most straightforward search algorithm is linear search, often called sequential search. Once the desired item is located or the full list has been searched, it includes iterating through each element of the list or array. Learning about the definition of Linear search is important before knowing the difference between linear search and binary search.

Whenever a match is found or the list's end is reached, the algorithm repeats the process starting at the beginning of the list and comparing each element with the target item. The algorithm returns the item's index if it is located. The algorithm returns a "not found" or "null" value if the item cannot be located. When there are n elements in a list or array, the time - varying complexity of a linear search is O(n). This implies that longer lists or arrays require the algorithm to look through them more slowly.

One benefit of linear search is that it may be applied to any kind of list or array, whether it is sorted or unsorted, this makes a major difference between linear search and binary search. Furthermore, because linear search uses so little memory, it is a suitable option for tiny lists or arrays.