What are the differences between unique and shared pointers in C++?

Can you explain the differences between unique and shared pointers in C++?

Sure! Unique pointers are owned by a single owner and cannot be copied, while shared pointers can be shared among multiple owners.

What happens if I try to copy a unique pointer?

If you try to copy a unique pointer, it will result in a compilation error because unique pointers cannot be copied.

When should I use shared pointers instead of unique pointers?

You should use shared pointers when you need multiple owners for the same resource, like in shared ownership scenarios.

Are there any performance implications when using shared pointers?

Yes, shared pointers have some overhead due to reference counting, which can impact performance compared to unique pointers.