What are the differences between JavaScript's Array.reverse() and Array.sort()?

Davide S

In JavaScript, both theArray.reverse() andArray.sort() methods are used to manipulate the order of elements in an array, but they have distinct functionalities and purposes. Let's explore the differences between these methods: 1. Reversing the Order: -Array.reverse(): - Thereverse() method reverses the order of elements in the original array. - It mutates the array in place, modifying the original array without creating a new one. - The first element becomes the last, and the last element becomes the first. -Array.sort(): - Thesort() method rearranges the elements of an array based on their Unicode code points. - By default, it sorts elements in ascending order. - It also mutates the array in place and modifies the original array. 2. Sorting the Order: -Array.reverse(): - The primary purpose ofreverse() is to reverse the order of elements in an array. - It does not provide a mechanism for custom sorting logic. - If you callreverse() on an already reversed array, it restores the original order. -Array.sort(): - Thesort() method provides a way to sort the elements of an array based on custom criteria. - It accepts an optional comparison function that defines the sorting logic. - By implementing the comparison function, you can control how the elements are ordered. - The comparison function should return a negative value if the first element should be placed before the second, a positive value if the first element should be placed after the second, or zero if their order is unchanged. 3. Return Value: -Array.reverse(): - Thereverse() method returns the modified array with the reversed order of elements. - It does not create a new array but modifies the existing array in place. - The return value is a reference to the original array. -Array.sort(): - Thesort() method returns the modified array with the sorted order of elements. - It also modifies the original array in place. - The return value is a reference to the original array. 4. Usage: -Array.reverse(): - Usereverse() when you specifically want to reverse the order of elements in an array, without any custom sorting logic. -Array.sort(): - Usesort() when you need to sort the elements of an array based on custom criteria, such as alphabetical order, numerical order, or complex sorting rules defined by a comparison function. Consider your specific requirements when choosing betweenreverse() andsort(). If you simply want to reverse the order of elements in an array,reverse() is the appropriate choice. If you need to sort the elements based on custom criteria,sort() with a comparison function is the suitable option.