Hi guys! Programming question:
In C, is an array _exactly_ the same thing as a pointer to the first element of the array? How does the program know the size of the array? Where is this information stored?
I just found out the difference between the length of a string and the size of the buffer reserved for that string. But if `char s[]` and `char *s` are the same thing, who controls the size of that?
(boost appreciated)
No, C actually has the concept of a traditional array hidden in it. Consider:
float a[3][4], *b = a;
(Your compiler won't like that assignment to b!)
and try saying a[1][2] versus b[1][2], and so forth.
Also take a look at sizeof(a)
C understands types, including multi-dimensional arrays. It has for a long, long time.
Arrays and pointers intersect in C, but are not identical.
