The insert and delete operations in a queue data structure are fundamental for managing the order of elements.
Insert Operation
The insert operation, often called enqueue, adds a new element to the rear (end) of the queue. This operation maintains the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) principle, where the element added first will be the first one to be removed.
- Example: Imagine a queue of people waiting to buy tickets. When a new person joins the line, they stand at the back of the queue.
Delete Operation
The delete operation, also known as dequeue, removes the element at the front of the queue. This operation follows the FIFO principle, removing the element that has been waiting in the queue for the longest time.
- Example: Continuing the ticket-buying scenario, the person at the front of the queue is the first one to be served and then leaves the line.
These operations ensure that the queue maintains its order and allows efficient processing of elements in a first-come, first-served manner.