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In computer science, an algorithm is a finite, ordered sequence of well-defined, unambiguous instructions, designed to solve a specific problem or perform a computation. It essentially provides a step-by-step procedure for a computer to follow to achieve a desired outcome.

Here are the key characteristics of an algorithm:

Input: An algorithm takes zero or more inputs, which are the data it operates on.

Output: It produces one or more outputs, which are the results of the computation.

Definiteness: Each instruction in an algorithm must be clear, precise, and unambiguous. There should be no room for interpretation.

Finiteness: An algorithm must terminate after a finite number of steps. It cannot run indefinitely.

Effectiveness: Each instruction must be simple enough to be carried out, either by a human or a machine, in a finite amount of time.

Algorithms are fundamental to computer programming and are used in various applications, from sorting data and searching for information to complex tasks like artificial intelligence and machine learning. They provide the logical foundation upon which computer programs are built.