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 automatically for most containers. It uses dynamic memory allocation to handle the storage of elements.

What happens when I add or remove elements from an STL container?

When you add elements, the STL may allocate more memory if the current capacity is exceeded. When you remove elements, it may not immediately release memory back to the system.

Can I control the memory allocation in STL?

Yes, you can use custom allocators to control memory allocation in STL containers, allowing for more efficient memory management.

What are some common pitfalls in STL memory management?

Common pitfalls include memory leaks when using raw pointers, and not understanding the copy and move semantics of STL containers.