Dynamic Memory

Dynamic memory allocation, through the use of functions like malloc() and realloc(), is a powerful tool that allows programmers to manipulate memory and variable storage. In this section, we go over how to use malloc(), and its counterpart free(), in relation to using pointers, as well as some good practices when allocating memory. Additionally, a few common mistakes are explained, many of which can be found using Valgrind.

• Lecture

  • Watch on Youtube
  • Watch on the CS50 Video Player
  • Download Lecture
  • Lecture Notes

• Short

  • Dynamic Memory Allocation

• Supplementary Resources

  • Man pages on malloc(), realloc(), calloc(), and free()
  • Tutorials Point on C library function - malloc
  • Microsoft Developer Network on malloc

• Thought Questions

  • What does dynamic memory allocation allow us to do?
  • How can we translate malloc() and free() into pseudocode?
  • Should we always have an equal number of calls to malloc() and free()?