Question

Creating variables while a program is running is called ______.

Short answer

Answer: Dynamic Variable Allocation

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the Term

The term for creating variables while a program is running is called "Dynamic Variable Allocation" or simply "dynamic allocation".

Understanding the Concept

Dynamic allocation refers to a technique used by programming languages like C++, Python, and others in which memory is allocated for variables during the program's runtime rather than at the beginning (also called "compile-time"). This allows for the generation and management of memory resources according to the needs of the program, resulting in more efficient memory utilization and better performance.

Key concepts

Runtime Memory Management

In computer programming, especially in languages like C++, Runtime Memory Management is a critical concept that deals with the allocation, use, and deallocation of memory as the program runs. Unlike static memory allocation, where the size and life cycle of variables are determined at compile-time, runtime memory management allows programs to be more flexible and efficient.

During the execution of a program, it might be necessary to allocate additional memory to accommodate data that was not foreseen at the time of compilation. For instance, when handling data structures whose size may vary, like user input or files of unknown size. Using functions like malloc(), calloc(), realloc() in C or new and delete in C++, developers can manage memory on the fly. It is imperative to also properly deallocate this memory using free() or delete to avoid memory leaks, which can lead to poor performance or system crashes.

C++ Programming

C++ is a powerful general-purpose programming language that supports various paradigms like procedural, object-oriented, and generic programming. It's widely used in software development for system/software applications, drivers, client-server applications, and embedded firmware.

The language offers extensive control over memory management, which can lead to higher program efficiency, but also requires the developer to be more responsible for low-level details like memory allocation and deallocation.

Key Features of C++ Programming:

• Function Overloading
• Class and Object creation
• Inheritance
• Polymorphism
• Templates
• Exception Handling
• SMART Pointers

Understanding and managing dynamic memory is a significant part of C++ that allows developers to write efficient and scalable code.

Dynamic Memory

Dynamic Memory in C++ refers to the allocation of memory during the runtime of a program rather than at compile-time. This is a core aspect of C++ that gives it an edge for performance and flexibility. Dynamic memory allocation is essential for creating applications that can handle varying amounts of data dynamically.

For example, creating dynamic arrays or linked lists, where the size might be unknown or changing, relies heavily on being able to allocate memory as needed.

Working with Dynamic Memory:

• Use the new operator for allocation and delete for deallocation.
• Handle dynamic arrays with new[] and delete[].
• Ensure to check for successful allocation and handle exceptions accordingly.
• Always deallocate memory to prevent leaks that can lead to increased memory usage and decreased performance.

Proper usage of dynamic memory requires careful planning and error management to create robust and reliable applications.