Single Element in a Sorted Array
Understand how to locate the unique element in a sorted array where all others appear twice, using modified binary search techniques for O(log n) time and O(1) space complexity. This lesson helps you master an essential coding interview pattern for array problems.
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Statement
You are given a sorted array of integers, nums, where all integers appear twice except for one. Your task is to find and return the single integer that appears only once.
The solution should have a time complexity of or better and a space complexity of .
Constraints:
-
nums.length -
nums[i]
Examples
Understand the problem
Let’s take a moment to make sure you’ve correctly understood the problem. The quiz below helps us to check if you’re solving the correct problem:
Single Element in a Sorted Array
What is the output if the following array is provided as input?
[1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 4, 4]
1
3
2
4
Figure it out!
We have a game for you to play. Rearrange the logical building blocks to develop a clearer understanding of how to solve this problem.
Try it yourself
Implement your solution in the following coding playground:
int SingleNonDuplicate(vector<int> nums){// Replace this placeholder return statement with your codereturn -1;}