Which of the following is a major drawback of linear probing?

2025

Which of the following is a major drawback of linear probing?

  1. A.

    Secondary clustering

  2. B.

    Primary clustering

  3. C.

    Requires a second hash function

  4. D.

    Uses extra memory for links

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Correct answer: B

Linear probing resolves collisions by searching sequentially for the next empty slot. A major drawback is primary clustering, where consecutive occupied slots form long runs. This increases search times significantly as the table fills up.

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