How is a bubble sort algorithm characterized?

A bubble sort algorithm is characterized by its process of repeatedly comparing adjacent elements in a list and swapping them if they are in the wrong order. This action continues through the list, allowing the largest unsorted element to "bubble" up to its correct position at the end of the list on each pass. The algorithm efficiently organizes the data by leveraging these simple adjacent comparisons and swaps until the entire list is sorted.

This method is straightforward and easy to understand, although it tends to be less efficient than more advanced sorting algorithms for larger datasets due to its O(n^2) worst-case and average time complexity. The characteristic approach of handling pairs of items directly distinguishes bubble sort from other algorithms that might employ different methods, such as recursion for divide and conquer strategies or more complex data structures like priority queues.