How do I properly exit a thread in the pthreads library?

How do I properly exit a thread in the pthreads library?

To exit a thread in the pthreads library, you can use the pthread_exit() function. This function allows a thread to terminate its execution and optionally return a value.

What happens if I don't call pthread_exit()?

If you don't call pthread_exit(), the thread will terminate when the function it was executing returns. However, this may lead to resource leaks if the thread has allocated resources.

Can I use return instead of pthread_exit()?

Yes, you can use return to exit a thread, but it's recommended to use pthread_exit() for clarity and to ensure proper cleanup.

What is the difference between pthread_exit() and return?

The main difference is that pthread_exit() allows you to specify a return value and ensures that the thread's resources are released properly, while return simply exits the thread's function.