DSA SectionEasy

K Pairs with smallest sum

Detailed guide and Python implementation for the 'K Pairs with smallest sum' problem.

Problem Statement

Easy

Write a function k_smallest_pairs(nums1, nums2, k) that takes two sorted integer arrays nums1 and nums2 and an integer k. Return the first k pairs [u, v] with the smallest sums, where u is from nums1 and v is from nums2, sorted by their sum in ascending order.

Constraints
  • 1 <= len(nums1), len(nums2) <= 10^4
  • 1 <= k <= 1000

Examples

Example 1
Input
nums1 = [1, 7, 11], nums2 = [2, 4, 6], k = 3
Output
[[1, 2], [1, 4], [1, 6]]
Explanation

The smallest sum pairs are (1,2) sum=3, (1,4) sum=5, (1,6) sum=7.

Need a Hint?
Consider using Arrays-specific data structures like sets or heaps.
Edge Cases to Watch
  • Empty input structures
  • Single element inputs
  • Large numerical bounds

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