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Maximize profitable pairs

Akuna CapitalData Scientist · Technical Screen
MediumData ScientistTechnical ScreenCoding & Algorithms

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This interview question evaluates algorithm design, data structures, correctness, complexity, edge cases, and implementation details in a realistic interview setting. A strong answer for Maximize profitable pairs states assumptions, handles edge cases, explains trade-offs, and shows how to validate the result clearly.

You are given an array profits of n integers representing net profit per item and an integer threshold T. You may form disjoint pairs (i, j). What is the maximum number of pairs such that profits[i] + profits[j] >= T? Describe an O(n log n) algorithm using sorting and a left/right pointer strategy, prove correctness, analyze complexity, and discuss edge cases (odd n, negative values, very large or very small T). Provide pseudocode.