Question

Creating variables while a program is running is called _______.

Short answer

Answer: Dynamic Memory Allocation

Step-by-step solution

Identify the concept

The exercise is about recognizing the concept of creating variables during the execution of a program.

Recall the term

Think back to the terminology associated with creating variables during program execution. The term is "Dynamic Memory Allocation."

Fill in the blank

Use the term "Dynamic Memory Allocation" to complete the sentence. The completed sentence is: "Creating variables while a program is running is called Dynamic Memory Allocation."

Key concepts

Understanding Variables

In the world of programming, variables are like little containers that hold data. They allow programmers to store information that can be used and manipulated within a program.
These can be things like numbers, text, or even more complex data types.
When you declare a variable, you essentially tell the program, "Hey, I need some space to store this piece of information."

In C++, a variable is declared by specifying the type of data it will hold, followed by the variable's name. For example:

• int age; declares a variable of type integer named age.
• float temperature; declares a variable of type float named temperature.

Variables are crucial because they let a program manage data and allow you to perform operations with that data. This makes your program dynamic and interactive.

How Program Execution Works

Program execution is the process where a computer follows the instructions written in a program. It starts when you run your program, and the computer's CPU begins processing the commands in the sequence from top to bottom.

During execution, the computer performs calculations, makes decisions, and manipulates data within variables.
This is why managing memory with dynamic allocation is crucial.
For example, if a program needs data storage space that changes during execution, dynamic memory allocation can provide just the right amount.

This helps in efficiently utilizing system resources and ensures the program can run smoothly by adapting to the data needs as they arise. Program execution is what turns the static instructions in code into living operations that accomplish tasks.

Dynamic Memory Allocation in C++ Programming

Dynamic Memory Allocation is a huge topic in C++ programming, especially when you need control over the amount of memory your program uses. It's a method that gives programs the flexibility to get memory while they are running, instead of only when they start.

In C++, this is commonly done using pointers in conjunction with operators like new and delete.

• The new operator allocates memory for a variable or array during runtime.
• The delete operator releases that memory once it's no longer needed, avoiding memory leaks.

Dynamic memory allocation is crucial when dealing with data structures like linked lists, trees, or any situation where data size isn't known before the program runs. By using dynamic memory allocation, you can write more efficient and adaptable C++ programs. This ensures you use only the memory you need, keeping your program lean and your computer happy!