Intersection of Linked List Problem

You are provided with two singly linked lists containing integers, where both lists converge at some node belonging to a third linked list.

Your task is to determine the data of the node at which they start merging. If no merging occurs, return -1.

Example:

The linked lists are structured as follows:

First Linked List: a1, a2, c1
Second Linked List: b1, b2, b3, c1
Third Linked List where merging occurs: c1, c2, c3

An image shows the merging:

alt.txt

Input:

Three lines representing three singly linked lists.
Each line contains elements separated by spaces, ending with -1.
Line 1 (First linked list): a1, a2, ...an, c1, -1
Line 2 (Second linked list): b1, b2, ...bm, c1, -1
Line 3 (Third linked list): c2, c3, ...ck, -1

Output:

A single integer representing the data of the node where the merging starts. Output -1 if no merging occurs.
You don't need to print this yourself as it is managed automatically.

Constraints:

  • 0 ≤ N ≤ 105
  • 0 ≤ M ≤ 105
  • 0 ≤ K ≤ 105
  • -109 ≤ data ≤ 109 and data ≠ -1
  • Time Limit: 1 second
AnswerBot
4mo

Find the node where two linked lists merge, return -1 if no merging occurs.

  • Traverse both lists to find their lengths and the difference in lengths

  • Move the pointer of the longer list by the difference ...read more

Help your peers!
Select
Add answer anonymously...
Enco Engineers Combine Product Intern Interview Questions
Stay ahead in your career. Get AmbitionBox app
play-icon
play-icon
qr-code
Trusted by over 1.5 Crore job seekers to find their right fit company
80 L+

Reviews

10L+

Interviews

4 Cr+

Salaries

1.5 Cr+

Users

Contribute to help millions

Made with ❤️ in India. Trademarks belong to their respective owners. All rights reserved © 2025 Info Edge (India) Ltd.

Follow Us
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
Profile Image
Hello, Guest
AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards 2025
Winners announced!
awards-icon
Contribute to help millions!
Write a review
Write a review
Share interview
Share interview
Contribute salary
Contribute salary
Add office photos
Add office photos
Add office benefits
Add office benefits