DSA

Phase 2 — Lab 1: Algorithm Race

Same code. Two inputs. Best vs Worst becomes physical (friction, heat, energy).

1) Choose the race

Algorithm

Input size (n)

Speed

1.2×

Friction (how “costly” each move feels)

1.0×

Coach: Run the race. Watch the energy meter. The algorithm is the same — only the input changes.

Tip: press Step for 5–10 moves, then Auto Run.

Best lane — Comparisons

Best lane — Swaps

Best lane — Energy Spent

Worst lane — Comparisons

Worst lane — Swaps

Worst lane — Energy Spent

Race Winner

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Teacher Note

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Press Step. Every comparison and swap becomes a physical event (flip, push, heat, sparks).

Worst case is not bad luck — it is the nature of the input arrangement.