Leetcode #1464: Maximum Product of Two Elements in an Array
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #1464 Maximum Product of Two Elements in an Array in Python and focus on the core idea that makes the solution efficient.
You will see the intuition, the step-by-step method, and a clean Python implementation you can use in interviews.
Problem Statement
Given the array of integers nums, you will choose two different indices i and j of that array. Return the maximum value of (nums[i]-1)*(nums[j]-1).
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Easy
- Premium: No
- Tags: Array, Sorting, Heap (Priority Queue)
Intuition
We need to repeatedly access the smallest or largest element as the input changes.
A heap provides fast insertions and removals while keeping order.
Approach
Push candidates into the heap as you scan, and pop when you need the best element.
Keep the heap size bounded if the problem requires a top-k structure.
Steps:
- Push candidates into a heap.
- Pop the best candidate when needed.
- Maintain heap size or invariants.
Example
Input: nums = [3,4,5,2]
Output: 12
Explanation: If you choose the indices i=1 and j=2 (indexed from 0), you will get the maximum value, that is, (nums[1]-1)*(nums[2]-1) = (4-1)*(5-1) = 3*4 = 12.
Python Solution
class Solution:
def maxProduct(self, nums: List[int]) -> int:
ans = 0
for i, a in enumerate(nums):
for b in nums[i + 1 :]:
ans = max(ans, (a - 1) * (b - 1))
return ans
Complexity
The time complexity is O(n log n). The space complexity is O(n).
Edge Cases and Pitfalls
Watch for boundary values, empty inputs, and duplicate values where applicable. If the problem involves ordering or constraints, confirm the invariant is preserved at every step.
Summary
This Python solution focuses on the essential structure of the problem and keeps the implementation interview-friendly while meeting the constraints.