How does memory management work in C++ STL?

How does memory management work in C++ STL?

In C++, the Standard Template Library (STL) manages memory through dynamic allocation and deallocation. Containers like vectors and lists handle memory automatically, but understanding how they allocate memory is crucial.

What happens when a vector resizes?

When a vector resizes, it allocates a new larger memory block, copies existing elements to the new block, and then deallocates the old block. This can be costly in terms of performance.

Can I control the memory allocation in STL containers?

Yes, you can provide a custom allocator to STL containers, allowing you to control how memory is allocated and deallocated.

What are the risks of using raw pointers with STL?

Using raw pointers can lead to memory leaks and undefined behavior if not managed properly. It's safer to use smart pointers like std::unique_ptr or std::shared_ptr.

Are there any tools to help with memory management in C++?

Yes, tools like Valgrind and AddressSanitizer can help detect memory leaks and memory-related errors in C++ programs.