Return the maximum number of edges on any path between two nodes; the path need not pass through the root.
A good solution should
- State the invariant or decision rule that makes the approach correct.
- Explain the time and space complexity in terms of the input sizes and required output.
- Handle empty, minimal, duplicate, and boundary-shaped inputs covered by the contract.
Reasoning prompt
At each node combine left and right heights for a candidate path while returning only one-side height to the parent.
Use the linked judge for the canonical problem. The examples above are compact TRT checks; write additional cases before submitting, especially for the boundary that tends to break your chosen invariant.