What is the key requirement for binary search to work correctly?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

To evaluate when binary search can be applied, we must consider what the algorithm relies on.
Option 1: 'Randomized input data' is not a prerequisite for binary search; the data can be in any order as long as other conditions are met, so randomness isn't required.
Option 2: 'The list must be sorted' is essential because binary search works by repeatedly halving the search interval, which only makes sense if the order of elements is known and monotonic.
Option 3: 'Large dataset size' is not a fundamental requirement; binary search is efficient (O(log n)) regardless of size, but it does not require a large dataset to function correctly.
Option 4: 'A recursive function' is not a necessity; binary search can be implemented iteratively or recursively, but recursion is simply one implementation detail, not a core requirement.
Option 5: 'Only integers allowed' is incorrect; binary search can operate on any ordered type (e.g., strings, floating-point numbers) as long as a well-defined order exists.

IS 4485-001 Fall 2025 Final Exam Practice 2

What is the key requirement for binary search to work correctly?

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