Find Second Smallest Element in an Array
Detailed guide and Python implementation for the 'Find Second Smallest Element in an Array' problem.
Problem Statement
Write a function second_smallest(arr) that takes a list of integers arr and returns the second smallest distinct element. If no second smallest exists (all elements are the same or array has fewer than 2 distinct values), return -1.
- •1 <= len(arr) <= 10^5
- •-10^9 <= arr[i] <= 10^9
Examples
arr = [3, 1, 4, 1, 5]
3
Sorted distinct values: [1, 3, 4, 5]. The second smallest is 3.
arr = [5, 5, 5]
-1
All elements are the same. No second smallest exists.
arr = [10, 20]
20
Two distinct values: 10, 20. Second smallest is 20.
Need a Hint?
Edge Cases to Watch
- Empty input structures
- Single element inputs
- Large numerical bounds
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