Complete Modern C++ - Reference

This lecture covers the concept of references in C programming, explaining their importance and how they serve as alternative names for variables. It details the creation and initialization of references, emphasizing that they must always be initialized with a variable. The lecture also compares references with pointers, highlighting key differences such as memory allocation, nullability, and binding behavior. The session concludes with a call to practice using references and pointers through examples.

What is required when creating a reference in C?

• A constant

• A literal value

• An initializer

• A pointer

How does a reference differ from a pointer in terms of memory allocation?

• Both allocate the same amount of memory

• A reference allocates new memory

• A pointer does not allocate memory

• A reference does not allocate new memory

What happens when you modify the value of a referent?

• Both the referent and reference change

• Neither changes

• Only the referent changes

• Only the reference changes

What error occurs if a reference is not initialized?

• Compilation error

• Logical error

• Runtime error

• Syntax error

Which of the following is true about a reference?

• It is just another name for a variable

• It can be null

• It can be re-bound to another variable

• It requires its own storage

How do you access the value inside a reference?

• Using the address-of operator

• Directly, without any operator

• Using the dereference operator

• By copying the value

What is a key difference between a reference and a pointer?

• A reference can be null

• A pointer cannot be null

• A reference can point to different variables

• A pointer can point to different variables