12 Questions
What is the primary difference between compile-time and run-time memory allocation?
Compile-time allocation requires the size to be known in advance, while run-time allocation allows dynamic sizing.
Which of the following is a crucial component of dynamic memory allocation?
All of the above
Which of the following statements about static memory allocation is true?
The size of the memory block must be known at compile-time.
What is the role of pointers in dynamic memory allocation?
Pointers are used to store the addresses of dynamically allocated memory.
Which operator is used to dynamically allocate memory in C++?
new
What is the purpose of memory deallocation in dynamic memory allocation?
To free up the memory occupied by dynamically allocated variables.
What is the primary purpose of dynamic memory allocation?
To allocate memory for data structures that can grow or shrink during runtime
How does a pointer differ from a regular variable?
A pointer stores the address of another variable in memory
What is the purpose of the address-of operator (&) in C++?
To provide the memory address of a variable
Which operator is used to access the value that a pointer is pointing to?
The dereference operator (*)
What is the correct syntax for declaring a pointer variable in C++?
type *variable-name;
Why is dynamic memory allocation preferred over using fixed-size arrays?
Dynamic memory allocation allows data structures to grow or shrink as needed
Study Notes
Memory Allocation
- There are two ways to allocate memory for storing data: compile time allocation (static allocation) and run time allocation (dynamic allocation)
- Compile time allocation is done by the compiler, where the exact size and storage must be known at compile time, and the size of arrays must be constant
- Run time allocation is done dynamically within the program run, and the exact space or number of items does not have to be known by the compiler in advance
Dynamic Memory Allocation
- Dynamic memory allocation allows programmers to allocate storage space while the program is running
- It requires two criteria: creating dynamic space in memory and storing its address in a pointer
- The free store is an area of memory available in the C++ run-time environment to handle dynamic memory allocation
- The new operator is used to allocate memory at run time and returns the address of the space allocated
- Memory de-allocation is also a part of dynamic memory allocation, where the programmer must clean up dynamically created space using the delete operator
Pointers and Dynamic Memory Allocation
- Arrays are limited in size and cannot be adjusted during the program run
- Pointers are used to build dynamic data structures from small pieces, allowing for dynamic growth
- A pointer is the address value of a memory location
- Pointers can be declared using the syntax:
Type * variable-name; - Operations on pointers include:
- The address-of operator (&) to get the memory address of a variable
- The contents of operator (*) to get the variable pointed to by a pointer
Test your knowledge on memory allocation methods which include compile time allocation (static) and run time allocation (dynamic). Learn about how memory is allocated for variables and arrays in programming.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
