Sorting Algorithm Visualizer

A graphical tool to visualize various sorting algorithms (Bubble Sort, Selection Sort, QuickSort) using a dynamic and interactive interface. This tool helps in understanding how sorting algorithms work by visually showing each step of the algorithm in action. Additionally, you can implement other sorting algorithms to visualize them.

Features

• Bubble Sort Visualization: Shows the step-by-step process of sorting an array using Bubble Sort.
• Selection Sort Visualization: Visualizes the Selection Sort algorithm, displaying the process of finding the minimum element.
• QuickSort Visualization: Demonstrates how the QuickSort algorithm partitions and sorts the array.
• Real-time Visualization: Watch the array change visually as the algorithm progresses.

Keybinds:

• Spacebar: Start the Bubble Sort algorithm.
• S: Start the Selection Sort algorithm.
• Q: Start the QuickSort algorithm.

Dependencies

The project requires the following C++ libraries:

• SFML for graphical rendering and event handling.

For Windows Users with WSL:

• VcXsrv: A Windows-based X server to display graphics from WSL.

Usage

1. Install Dependencies:

   • For WSL: Ensure you have an X server installed on your Windows machine (like VcXsrv) to allow graphical output.

     If using VcXsrv, install it from here. Ensure you select "Disable access control" when launching it.

   • For Ubuntu (or other Linux distros in WSL): Install SFML by running the following command:

     sudo apt update
     sudo apt install libsfml-dev

2. Clone the Repository and Build: Clone the repository and build the project using g++:

git clone https://github.com/spencerboggs/sorting-algorithm-visualizer.git
cd sorting-algorithm-visualizer
g++ main.cpp SortingAlgorithms.cpp Visualizer.cpp -o visualizer -lsfml-graphics -lsfml-window -lsfml-system

4. Set the DISPLAY Environment Variable (for WSL users): Ensure the DISPLAY environment variable is set to allow graphical output from WSL. Run the following command:

export DISPLAY=XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX:0.0  # Adjust the IP to be your own (get this by running ipconfig in windows cmd)

4. Run the Application: After building the project, run the application:

./visualizer

Troubleshooting:

• Failed to open X11 display error: ensure the DISPLAY variable has been properly set inside of .bashrc
• If xhost is not found: install x11-xserver-utils by running: sudo apt install x11-xserver-utils
• If X server requires authorization: Ensure that you disable access control in your X server or use xhost +.