Algorithm Vision
Sorting AlgorithmsIntermediate

Merge Sort

A divide-and-conquer algorithm that splits the array in half, sorts each half recursively, then merges them back together. Guarantees O(n log n) time and is stable, but requires additional memory. Particularly effective for large datasets and linked list sorting.

#sorting#divide-and-conquer#stable

Complexity Analysis

Time (Average)

O(n log n)

Expected case performance

Space

O(n)

Memory requirements

Time (Best)

O(n log n)

Best case performance

Time (Worst)

O(n log n)

Worst case performance

📚 CLRS Reference

Introduction to Algorithms•Chapter 2•Section 2.3

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Algorithm Performance Metrics

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Algorithm Visualization

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Code Execution

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Implementation

Related Algorithms

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Bubble Sort

Beginner

The most basic sorting algorithm that repeatedly compares adjacent elements and swaps them if they are in wrong order. Like bubbles rising to the surface, larger values gradually move to the end of the array. Best suited for small datasets or educational purposes to understand sorting fundamentals.

O(n²)
O(1)
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Selection Sort

Beginner

Finds the smallest element and moves it to the front repeatedly. Each iteration "selects" the minimum from remaining elements and places it after the sorted portion. Simple to implement with minimal memory usage, but always takes O(n²) time regardless of input.

O(n²)
O(1)
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Quick Sort

Intermediate

A highly efficient sorting algorithm that selects a pivot element and partitions the array with smaller values on the left and larger on the right. Averages O(n log n) and is the most widely used sorting method in practice. Forms the foundation of built-in sort functions in most programming languages.

O(n log n)
O(log n)
sortingdivide-and-conquer
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Merge Sort - Algorithm Vision