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Solution: Kth Smallest Element in a Sorted Matrix

Explore how to use the k-way merge pattern to identify the kth smallest element in an n x n matrix sorted row-wise and column-wise. Learn to implement a min-heap approach that efficiently manages sorted rows as arrays, and understand the time and space complexities involved.

Statement

Find the kthk^{th} smallest element in an (n×n)(n \times n) matrix, where each row and column of the matrix is sorted in ascending order.

Although there can be repeating values in the matrix, each element is considered unique and, therefore, contributes to calculating the kthk^{th} smallest element.

Constraints:

  • n ==== matrix.length
  • n ==== matrix[i].length
  • 11\leq n 100\leq100
  • 103
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