What is a linked list in C and how is it implemented?
Table of Contents
Introduction
A linked list is a fundamental data structure in C used for managing a collection of elements dynamically. Unlike arrays, linked lists do not require contiguous memory allocation, making them suitable for situations where the size of the data set may change frequently. This guide covers the types of linked lists and provides practical implementation examples in C.
Types of Linked Lists
1. Singly Linked List
A singly linked list consists of nodes where each node has two components: data and a pointer to the next node. This structure allows traversal from the head to the end of the list in one direction only.
Structure:
- Node: Contains data and a pointer to the next node.
- Head: Points to the first node in the list.
Implementation Example:
2. Doubly Linked List
A doubly linked list extends the singly linked list by adding an additional pointer in each node to point to the previous node. This allows traversal in both directions: forward and backward.
Structure:
- Node: Contains data, a pointer to the next node, and a pointer to the previous node.
- Head: Points to the first node.
- Tail: Points to the last node (optional for easier access to the end).
Implementation Example:
3. Circular Linked List
A circular linked list is similar to a singly or doubly linked list, but the last node points back to the first node, creating a circular structure.
Structure:
- Node: Same as singly or doubly linked list but with the last node’s next pointer pointing to the head.
Implementation Example:
Conclusion
Linked lists in C provide a dynamic way to manage collections of data. By understanding and implementing singly, doubly, and circular linked lists, you can efficiently handle various data management tasks. Each type of linked list has its unique characteristics and use cases, making them versatile tools for different programming scenarios.