Reconstruct a tree from two traversals
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Reconstruct a tree from two traversals evaluates algorithm design, data structures, correctness, complexity, edge cases, and implementation details in a realistic interview setting. A strong answer states assumptions, handles edge cases, explains trade-offs, and shows how to validate the result clearly.
Given two arrays representing the preorder and inorder traversals of a binary tree with unique values, reconstruct the tree and return its root. Achieve O(n) time and O(n) extra space. Describe how you would detect and handle invalid inputs that cannot form a valid tree. Write unit tests covering typical, edge, and degenerate cases (e.g., empty tree, single node, skewed trees, mismatched arrays).
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