WBJECA 2025 — Computer PYQ
WBJECA | Computer | 2025Which of the following points is/are not true about Linked List data structure when it is compared with an array?
Choose the correct answer:
- A.
Random access is not allowed in a typical implementation of Linked Lists.
- B.
Access of elements in Linked List takes less time than compared to arrays.
(Correct Answer) - C.
Arrays have better cache locality that can make them better in terms of performance.
- D.
It is easy to insert and delete elements in Linked List.
Access of elements in Linked List takes less time than compared to arrays.
Explanation
In data structures, the choice between an array and a linked list depends on the operational requirements. The statement in option (B) is false because linked lists do not support random access, making element access slower compared to arrays.
Array Access: Arrays are stored in contiguous memory locations, allowing for O(1) constant time access using an index:
Access_Array=Addressbase+(Index×Sizeelement)
Linked List Access: Linked lists consist of nodes scattered in memory, requiring sequential traversal from the head, resulting in O(n) time complexity:
Access_List=i=1∑nT(traversal_to_nodei)
Where n is the position of the desired element.
Why (A) is true: Linked lists require sequential traversal; there is no direct address calculation for an arbitrary index.
Why (C) is true: Arrays exhibit spatial locality because elements are adjacent in memory, which significantly benefits CPU cache performance.
Why (D) is true: Linked list insertions and deletions involve simply updating pointers, whereas arrays often require shifting elements, which costs O(n) time.
Since option (B) incorrectly claims that linked lists are faster for access, it is the correct answer to the question asking for the "not true" statement.

