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C++ Fundamentals · Arrays & Pointers · Lesson 19 of 24

Dynamic Memory with new/delete

Concept

Dynamic Memory with new/delete

new allocates memory on the heap at runtime. delete frees it, and forgetting to delete causes a memory leak.

By the end of this lesson
  • Explain the core idea behind Dynamic Memory with new/delete.
  • Predict output before running a change.
  • Test one realistic and one unusual input.
  • Use the result to make the next decision.
How to study this page
  1. 1. Read one concept.
  2. 2. Change the example.
  3. 3. Run, compare, and explain.
  4. 4. Complete the challenge below.
ExampleRunnable
int* p = new int(42);
std::cout << *p << std::endl;
delete p;
Try it Yourself »
Self-check before continuing

Without looking at the example, describe what changes when you modify one input in Dynamic Memory with new/delete. Then reopen the editor and prove your explanation with a small test.

You are ready to continue when you can predict, test, and explain the result.

Your turn

Allocate an int with new, print its value, then free it with delete.

Loading editor…

Console

Output will appear here...