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Data Structures for Data Engineers: Arrays — Multi-Dimensional Array
5 min readSep 17, 2023
Introducing Multi-Dimensional Arrays:
In data engineering, where the goal often revolves around organizing and interpreting vast datasets, the multi-dimensional array (often referred to as a matrix) reigns supreme. Going beyond the simplicity of the single-dimensional array, multi-dimensional arrays allow data engineers to represent data in a format akin to tables, grids, or even 3D structures, proving indispensable when handling more intricate datasets.
Basic Characteristics:
- Layered Structure: Multi-dimensional arrays consist of layers of single-dimensional arrays. A 2D array, for instance, can be visualized as a matrix or table. A 3D array can be visualized as a cube or cuboid.
- Contiguous Memory Allocation: Like their single-dimensional counterparts, multi-dimensional arrays store elements in contiguous memory locations, optimizing data retrieval.
- Indexed Elements: Every element is accessed using multiple indices, one for…