Bubble Sort

What is Bubble Sort?

Bubble sort is a sorting algorithm with an O(n2) time complexity.

This sorting algorithm remains one of the slower algorithms, although it achieves an O(1) space complexity. This space complexity gives it a great use case for machines with minimal storage capabilities.

Code Implementation

Writing bubble sort consists of the following steps:

Start at the beginning of the list.
Compare the first two items in the list.
If the first item is greater than the second item, swap them.
Move to the next pair of items and repeat steps 2-3.
Continue this process until you reach the end of the list.
After completing one pass through the list, the largest item will "bubble" to the end.
Repeat steps 1-6 for the remaining items, but each time you do this, you can ignore the last item since it's already in its correct position.

Big O Complexity

Best Case O(n)

Average Case O(n2)

Worst Case O(n2)

The best case occurs when the original list as already sorted. Otherwise, bubble sort accesses each element twice.

Applications

Firmware

Bubble sort has an O(1) complexity and uses minimal space. Firmware, the pre-installed computer software, should not take up many resources when running the computer. This makes bubble sort a good algorithm for firmware applicability.

Resource Limited Hardware

Since bubble sort has an O(1) space complexity, we don't need to take up more memory to sort the list. Memory efficiency is crucial for resource-limited machines like space hardware.

Teaching

Bubble sort is a great way to teach computer science students sorting algorithms. It is simple to understand and to implement, as well as to teach students the basics of big O notation and the importance of choosing between time and space efficiency.

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