depth-first search

(algorithm)

A graph search algorithm which extends the current path as far as possible before backtracking to the last choice point and trying the next alternative path. Depth-first search may fail to find a solution if it enters a cycle in the graph. This can be avoided if we never extend a path to a node which it already contains.

Opposite of breadth first search. See also iterative deepening.

This article is provided by FOLDOC - Free Online Dictionary of Computing (foldoc.org)

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