What are the memory management features in the C++ standard library?

What are the memory management features in the C++ standard library?

The C++ standard library provides several features for memory management, including smart pointers like std::unique_ptr and std::shared_ptr, which help manage dynamic memory automatically.

Can you explain how std::unique_ptr works?

Sure! std::unique_ptr is a smart pointer that owns a dynamically allocated object exclusively. When the unique_ptr goes out of scope, it automatically deletes the associated object, preventing memory leaks.

What are the advantages of using smart pointers over raw pointers?

Smart pointers help prevent memory leaks and dangling pointers by automatically managing the memory lifecycle. They also provide better exception safety.

Are there any performance considerations when using smart pointers?

Yes, while smart pointers add some overhead due to reference counting and additional checks, they often lead to safer and more maintainable code, which can outweigh the performance costs.