What are some unique_ptr usage scenarios in C++?

What are some unique_ptr usage scenarios in C++?

Unique pointers are used for managing dynamic memory in C++. They ensure that memory is automatically freed when the pointer goes out of scope.

Can you give me an example of when to use unique_ptr?

Sure! You can use unique_ptr when you want to ensure that a resource is owned by a single pointer, like when creating a resource-intensive object that should be deleted automatically.

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

If you try to copy a unique_ptr, it will result in a compilation error because unique_ptr is non-copyable. You can only move it.

Are there any performance benefits to using unique_ptr?

Yes, unique_ptr can improve performance by eliminating the overhead of reference counting, which is present in shared_ptr.