Heap Data Structures
From standard Binary Heaps to theoretical structures like Fibonacci and Soft Heaps.
Binary Heap
StandardComplete binary tree where parent ≥ child (Max) or parent ≤ child (Min).
B-Heap
SystemsBinary heap implemented on pages of virtual memory. Optimized to reduce cache misses.
d-ary Heap
GeneralizationGeneralization where nodes have d children instead of 2. Reduces tree height.
Binomial Heap
MergeableA collection of Binomial Trees. Supports fast merging of two heaps.
Fibonacci Heap
TheoreticalCollection of trees with lazy operations. Critical for Dijkstra's Algorithm optimization.
Leftist Heap
MergeableBinary tree that maintains a "null path length" property (leftist). Optimized for melding.
Skew Heap
Self-AdjustingSimplified Leftist Heap. No path length storage. Always swaps children during merge.
Pairing Heap
PracticalSimple to implement and practically fast. Multi-ary tree structure with multipass merge.
Weak Heap
OptimizationRelaxed structure (some nodes don't enforce heap property) to reduce comparisons.
Soft Heap
ApproximateAllows "corruption" (error) in values for speed. Used in optimal MST algorithms.