HASH CODE Meaning and
Definition
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A hash code, in computer science, refers to a numerical value derived from an input data or object using a mathematical algorithm or hash function. It is a fixed-size value that is uniquely associated with the input data. The purpose of a hash code is to efficiently represent the input data or object in a compact form, allowing for quick lookup or comparison operations.
Hash codes are commonly employed in various data structures such as hash tables, hash maps, and hash sets, enabling fast data retrieval and storage. When an object or data is to be stored or retrieved, the hash code is computed to determine the index or bucket at which the data should be placed or retrieved from within the data structure. This helps to minimize the time complexity of operations like insertion, deletion, and search.
An ideal hash function should produce a unique hash code for each distinct input, ensuring that different objects yield different hash codes. However, in practice, collisions can occur where two different objects produce the same hash code. Therefore, a good hash function aims to minimize the number of collisions and evenly distribute the hash codes across the available buckets.
Hash codes are widely used in areas such as database indexing, caching, and password hashing. They provide a compact representation of data, enabling efficient storage and retrieval operations, while also ensuring data integrity and security.
Common Misspellings for HASH CODE
- gash code
- bash code
- nash code
- jash code
- uash code
- yash code
- hzsh code
- hssh code
- hwsh code
- hqsh code
- haah code
- hazh code
- haxh code
- hadh code
- haeh code
- hawh code
- hasg code
- hasb code
- hasn code
- hasj code
Etymology of HASH CODE
The word "hash code" is derived from the term "hashing" which refers to a specific algorithmic process used in computer science. The term "hash" originates from the verb "to hash", which means to chop or make small pieces. In the context of computing, a hash function takes an input (such as a text, password, or data) and converts it into a fixed-size value, typically a sequence of letters and numbers. This value is known as the hash code. The term "hash code" emerged as a way to describe the outcome of applying a hash function to a piece of data.
