What are some examples of using unique_ptr in C++?

Can you give me some examples of how to use unique_ptr in C++?

Sure! A unique_ptr is a smart pointer that owns a dynamically allocated object. Here's a simple example:

#include <iostream>
#include <memory>

int main() {
    std::unique_ptr<int> ptr = std::make_unique<int>(10);
    std::cout << *ptr << std::endl; // Outputs: 10
    return 0;
}

This creates a unique_ptr that points to an integer initialized to 10.

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

You cannot copy a unique_ptr because it is designed to have sole ownership of the object it points to. If you try to copy it, you'll get a compilation error. Instead, you can transfer ownership using std::move.

Can you show me an example of transferring ownership?

Absolutely! Here's how you can transfer ownership:

#include <iostream>
#include <memory>

void display(std::unique_ptr<int> ptr) {
    std::cout << *ptr << std::endl;
}

int main() {
    std::unique_ptr<int> ptr1 = std::make_unique<int>(20);
    display(std::move(ptr1)); // Transfers ownership to the display function
    // ptr1 is now nullptr
    return 0;
}

What are the advantages of using unique_ptr over raw pointers?

Using unique_ptr helps prevent memory leaks and dangling pointers by automatically managing the memory. It ensures that the memory is released when the unique_ptr goes out of scope, making your code safer and cleaner.