Bubble sort - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Reviewed by: Robert Hampton

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Bubble sort is a simple sorting algorithm used in computer science to arrange a list of elements in a certain order, typically ascending or descending. In the context of a GCSE Computer Science course, bubble sort repeatedly steps through the list, compares adjacent pairs of elements, and swaps them if they are in the wrong order. This process is repeated for each element in the list until no more swaps are needed, indicating that the list is sorted. Although bubble sort is easy to understand and implement, it is not very efficient for large datasets due to its high time complexity, making it best suited for educational purposes and small lists.

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Robert Hampton

Reviewer: Robert Hampton

Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

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