Array Sorting

In the previous sections, we learned about arrays and their operations. Now, let's explore array sorting.

Array sorting involves arranging the elements in an array in a specific order, such as ascending or descending order. Sorting arrays is a common operation in programming, and it helps in various applications, including robotics and computer vision.

Sorting Algorithms

There are several sorting algorithms available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some commonly used sorting algorithms are:

• Bubble Sort: Compares adjacent elements and swaps them if they are in the wrong order.
• Selection Sort: Selects the smallest element and places it in the correct position.
• Insertion Sort: Builds the final sorted array one item at a time.
• Merge Sort: Divides the array into two halves, sorts them recursively, and then merges them.
• Quick Sort: Selects a pivot element, partitions the array around the pivot, and recursively sorts the sub-arrays.

Sorting an Array in Python

In Python, you can sort an array using the NumPy library. Here's an example:

1import numpy as np
2
3# Array of integers
4arr = np.array([4, 2, 8, 5, 1])
5
6# Sorting the array in ascending order
7sorted_arr = np.sort(arr)
8
9print(sorted_arr)  # Output: [1 2 4 5 8]

In this example, we use the np.sort() function from the NumPy library to sort the array arr in ascending order.

Choosing the Right Sorting Algorithm

The choice of sorting algorithm depends on various factors such as the size of the array, the expected order of the elements, and the available computing resources. It's important to consider the time and space complexity of the algorithm to ensure efficient sorting.

When working with large arrays or time-critical applications, it might be necessary to analyze the trade-offs between different sorting algorithms and choose the best one for the specific use case.

Summary

Array sorting is an essential operation in programming, especially in fields like robotics and computer vision. There are various sorting algorithms available, each with its own characteristics. By understanding the different sorting algorithms and their trade-offs, you can choose the most appropriate one for your application.

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import numpy as np

​

# Array of integers

arr = np.array([4, 2, 8, 5, 1])

​

# Sorting the array in ascending order

sorted_arr = np.sort(arr)

​

print(sorted_arr)  # Output: [1 2 4 5 8]