Object Oriented Programming: Pointers in C++

Memory Allocation in C++

• Memory for a variable is allocated at compile-time for local variables or at runtime for dynamic variables.
• Local variables are typically allocated on the stack, while dynamic variables allocated using the new keyword are placed on the heap.
• The size of memory allocated depends on the variable's data type (e.g., int, float, double, etc.).

Address Operator '&'

• The address operator & is used to obtain the memory address of a variable.
• It helps in referencing the variable's location in memory, which is vital for pointer operations.

Unique Variable Addresses

• Each variable in a C++ program is stored at a unique address to ensure distinct identification and access.
• This avoids conflicts during variable access and manipulation, allowing each variable to maintain its state and value independently.

Size Determinants for Variables

• The memory slot size allocated for a variable primarily depends on the variable's data type and the architecture of the system (e.g., 32-bit, 64-bit).
• For instance, an int typically allocates 4 bytes, while a double allocates 8 bytes.

Object-Oriented Programming Course Assessment

• In object-oriented programming courses, components like projects, exams, and quizzes may have different weightages; projects often receive the highest weightage.
• Participation and attendance might carry less weight in comparison to practical assessments.

'New' Keyword Functionality

• The new keyword is utilized to allocate memory dynamically on the heap for a variable in C++.
• It returns a pointer to the allocated memory, allowing for the handling of objects and arrays whose size might not be known at compile time.

Variable Declaration Implications

• Upon variable declaration in C++, memory is allocated according to its specified type, and the variable is initialized (or left uninitialized) based on the context.
• If a variable is global or static, it will have a default value (e.g., zero for fundamental types).

Variable Address Significance

• The ability to assign a unique address to each variable is crucial for pointer functionality and memory management.
• It ensures safe and effective manipulation of data, avoiding unintentional modifications to variables.

Prepare for your final term examination on object-oriented programming, focusing on pointers in C++. This quiz covers topics from Chapter 9 of 'Starting Out with C++: From Control Structures through Objects' by Tony Gaddis. Test your knowledge on getting the address of a variable and other related concepts.