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C++ Pointers and References
course content

Course Content

C++ Pointers and References

C++ Pointers and References

1. Pointers Fundamentals
Introduction to PointerAssigning Addresses to PointersLink Between Pointer and VariablePointers Use Cases
2. Pointer Arithmetic
Introduction to Pointer ArithmeticPointer Arithmetic PracticeArrays and Pointers ConnectionArray Pointer Arithmetic Practice
3. References Fundamentals
Introduction to ReferencesReference Use CasesRvalue and Lvalue ReferencesReference vs Pointers
4. Dynamic Memory Allocation
Introduction to MemoryDynamic AllocationDynamic Allocation of the ArrayPointer to Pointer Dynamic AllocationSummary and Overview

bookArrays and Pointers Connection

Arrays and pointers are closely connected. The name of an array can be treated as a pointer to its first element. Look at the example below:

cpp

main

copy

              
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#include <iostream>

int main()
{
	int arr[5] { 12, 21, 27, 10, 11 };
	// using dereference operator (*) to access the value
	std::cout << *(arr);
}

Arrays are typically formed by arranging elements in contiguous memory blocks, where each element is stored in consecutive memory locations. This enables the application of pointer arithmetic to access any element within the array.

cpp

main

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#include <iostream>

int main()
{
    float arr[5] { 2.7, 9.9, 1.0, 0.3, 2.2 };
    std::cout << arr[3] << std::endl;
 	std::cout << *(arr + 3) << std::endl;
}

In fact, the compiler automatically performs this operation. It translates array brackets into the dereference operator with pointer arithmetic with an array name. This implies that the order can be changed, allowing the index to be placed outside the brackets while the array name remains inside the brackets (index[array_name]).

cpp

main

copy

              
12345678

            
#include <iostream>

int main()
{
  float arr[5] { 2.7, 9.9, 1.0, 0.3, 2.2 };

 	std::cout << 3[arr] << std::endl;
}

Note

Stick to conventional syntax for clarity, this form may confuse unfamiliar readers

What is the connection between arrays and pointers?

What is the connection between arrays and pointers?

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Section 2. Chapter 3
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