What is the difference between a dynamic and a static data structure?

A dynamic data structure is one that is not fixed in size and may not be contiguous in the computer's main memory. This is implemented through the use of pointers which 'point' to the location of the next item in the data structure in memory. The advantage of this is that you do not have to specify the size of the data when you allocate memory to it, it can grow and shrink in size dynamically. The main disadvantage, however, is that it is slower to access a particular item in the structure, when compared to static data structures, requiring you to proceed through each to find it.

By contrast, a static data structure is fixed in size and contiguous in memory; means you must specify its size when it is defined. However, the upside of this is that you can easily access any item within the structure as you know where it is located in memory without going through the entire structure.

Answered by Toby D. Computing tutor

10961 Views

See similar Computing A Level tutors

Related Computing A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the point of an Operating System?


Explain how the fetch execute cycle works? Include the specific registers and buses being used


How can I decide whether Quicksort or Mergesort is better for a given situation?


Choose 3 types of malware, describe them and the ways in which they may harm a device.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences