How do I use smart pointers in C++?

How do I use smart pointers in C++?

Smart pointers in C++ are used to manage the lifetime of dynamically allocated objects. They help prevent memory leaks and dangling pointers. The three main types are std::unique_ptr, std::shared_ptr, and std::weak_ptr. Would you like to know about a specific type?

What's the difference between unique_ptr and shared_ptr?

std::unique_ptr is a smart pointer that owns a dynamically allocated object exclusively, meaning no other pointer can own it. std::shared_ptr, on the other hand, allows multiple pointers to share ownership of the same object, using reference counting to manage the object's lifetime.

Can you give me an example of using unique_ptr?

Sure! 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 code creates a unique pointer to an integer initialized to 10.

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

If you try to copy a std::unique_ptr, it will result in a compilation error because unique_ptr cannot be copied. It can only be moved, which transfers ownership to another unique_ptr.