Can you give me examples of using unique_ptr in C++?

Can you give me examples of using unique_ptr in C++?

Sure! std::unique_ptr is a smart pointer that manages 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 pointer to an integer initialized to 10.

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

Good question! std::unique_ptr cannot be copied because it is designed to have a single owner. If you try to copy it, you'll get a compilation error. You can, however, move it using std::move().

Can you show me how to move a unique_ptr?

Absolutely! Here's how you can move a unique_ptr:

#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)); // ptr1 is now empty after the move
    return 0;
}

In this example, ptr1 is moved to the display function, and after the move, ptr1 becomes empty.

Are there any drawbacks to using unique_ptr?

While unique_ptr is great for managing resources, it can't be shared between multiple owners. If you need shared ownership, consider using std::shared_ptr instead.