What are the performance implications of using std::atomic in C++?

What are the performance implications of using std::atomic in C++?

Using std::atomic can introduce overhead due to memory barriers and locking mechanisms, which may affect performance.

How does std::atomic compare to regular variables in terms of speed?

Regular variables are generally faster, but std::atomic ensures thread safety, which is crucial in concurrent programming.

Are there specific scenarios where std::atomic is preferred?

Yes, std::atomic is preferred in multi-threaded environments where shared data needs to be accessed safely without locks.

What are some alternatives to std::atomic?

Alternatives include mutexes for locking, or lock-free data structures, depending on the use case and performance requirements.