Find Greatest Of Two Numbers In Python

Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Mayank Dham

Given two integer inputs, the objective is to find the largest number among the two integer inputs. In order to do so, we usually use if-else statements to check which one is greater.

Example to find greatest of two numbers in Python:
Input: 20 10
Output: 20

Here are some of the Python methods to solve the above-mentioned problem.

1. Using if-else
2. Using max() function
3. Using ternary operator
4. Using lambda function
5. Using list
6. Using sort() function

Using if-else to find greatest of two numbers in Python

def maximum(a, b):
if a >= b:
return a
else:
return b

a = 2
b = 4
print(maximum(a, b))

Output

4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Using max() function to find greatest of two numbers in Python

a = 2
b = 4
maximum = max(a, b)
print(maximum) 

Output

4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Using ternary operator to find greatest of two numbers in Python

a = 2
b = 4
print(a if a >= b else b)

Output

4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Using lambda function to find greatest of two numbers in Python

a=2
b=4
maximum = lambda a,b:a if a > b else b
print(maximum(a,b))

Output

4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Using list to find greatest of two numbers in Python

a=2;b=4
x=[a if a>b else b]
print(x)

Output

4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Using sort() function to find greatest of two numbers in Python

a = 2
b = 4
x=[a,b]
x.sort()
print(x[-1])

Output
4

Time complexity: O(1)
Space complexity: O(1)

Conclusion
Finally, we looked at various Python methods for finding the greatest of two numbers. If-else statements, the max() function, the ternary operator, lambda functions, using a list, and the sort() function are among the methods covered.

These methods offer various approaches to efficiently solving the problem. The if-else method compares the two numbers and returns the greater of the two. maxThe max() function finds the maximum value directly. The ternary operator compares and returns the maximum number in a concise manner. Using a list, we can save the lambdas and retrieve the maximum. To determine the maximum, lambda functions generate an anonymous function. It allows us to store the numbers and retrieve the maximum. The sort() function sorts the numbers and returns the last element, which is the maximum.

Because they operate on a fixed number of inputs, each method has a time complexity of O(1) and a space complexity of O(1).

Understanding these techniques allows developers to select the best method for finding the greatest of two numbers in Python based on readability, code simplicity, and specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. In Python, which method is the most efficient for finding the greater of two numbers?
Because all of the methods mentioned have the same time and space complexity of O(1), they are all equally efficient. The method chosen is determined by factors such as code readability and personal preference.

Q2. Can these methods handle decimal points and negative values?
Yes, these methods can easily handle numbers with decimal points or negative values. They are applicable to both integers and floating-point numbers.

Q3. Is there a significant performance difference between if-else statements and the max() function?
The if-else statements and the max() function are very similar in terms of performance and efficiency. However, when dealing with multiple numbers, the max() function provides a more concise and readable solution.

Q4. Is there anything to consider when employing the lambda function approach?
The lambda function approach is suitable for simple comparisons such as determining which of two numbers is greater. However, for complex scenarios involving multiple conditions or complex expressions, it may become less readable and manageable.

Q5. How can I modify these techniques to find the greatest of multiple numbers instead of just two?
To find the greatest of multiple numbers, you can modify the methods by either using nested if-else statements or by utilizing the max() function with multiple arguments. For example, if you have a list of numbers, you can use max(list_of_numbers) to find the greatest value.