List
In programming, a list is a data structure that stores a collection of elements in a specific order. Each element in the list is assigned an index, starting from zero, which allows for efficient access and manipulation.
• It can be implemented using various data structures, such as arrays or linked lists, depending on the programming language and requirements of the application.
• It can be homogeneous (containing elements of the same data type) or heterogeneous (containing elements of different data types).
• Common operations on lists include:
- adding elements
- removing elements
- accessing elements by index
- searching for elements
- traversing the list from beginning to end or vice versa.
• Examples of lists in programming languages include arrays in languages like Python, Java, and C++, as well as linked lists and other list-like structures provided by libraries or frameworks.
ADT(Abstract Data Type)
An Abstract Data Type (ADT) is a mathematical model or conceptual framework for representing and managing data that defines a set of operations or behaviors that can be performed on the data, without specifying how these operations are implemented.
• ADTs provide an abstract interface for working with data, hiding the implementation details behind a set of well-defined operations. This separation of concerns allows for modularity, encapsulation, and abstraction in software design.
‣ Examples of commonly used ADTs include:
- lists,
- stacks
- queues
- sets
- maps
- trees
- graphs, and more.
Each ADT has a specific set of operations associated with it, such as adding, removing, searching, or iterating over elements.
• ADTs can be implemented using various data structures and algorithms, depending on the desired performance characteristics and usage patterns.
For example, lists can be implemented using arrays, linked lists, or other structures, but the underlying operations (e.g., adding an element to the list) remain consistent regardless of the implementation.
• ADTs are a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming and software engineering, providing a way to model and organize data in a structured and reusable manner.