Search⌘ K
AI Features

Solution: Kth Smallest Element in a Sorted Matrix

Explore an efficient algorithm to find the kth smallest element in an n by n sorted matrix. Learn to apply the k-way merge pattern using a min-heap to handle multiple sorted rows, ensuring optimal time complexity and clear implementation steps.

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
  • 103-10^3\leq
...