<human>:  What is an algorithm and how is it used in computing?
<bot>: An algorithm is a process or set of instructions used to solve a problem in computing. Algorithms are commonly used to perform tasks like data processing, calculations, and data manipulation. They are used to achieve a specific goal, such as sorting a list of numbers, finding the shortest path between two points on a map, or recognizing patterns in a dataset. Algorithms are used extensively in computer science and in almost all aspects of computing, from machine learning and artificial intelligence to engineering, finance, and data science.