Programming in C

Dept of Bio-informatics
VFSTR

Craig Simbisai Melisa Nithi Mehran

Marowa Chinhema Mpofu Theresa Khan
241FA14060 241FA14061 241FA14062 241FA14063 241FA14064

Pointers and Arrays

Abstract straightforward way to handle sequences of
Pointers and arrays are fundamental data, such as strings and lists of numbers.
constructs in C programming that facilitate Arrays are foundational for many
efficient data manipulation and memory programming tasks, from simple data
management. They enable dynamic memory storage to complex algorithm
allocation, efficient handling of data implementation.
structures, and the ability to create complex By combining pointers and arrays,
data relationships. This presentation programmers can achieve greater control
provides an in-depth exploration of pointers and optimization in their code. Pointers
and arrays, highlighting their syntax, usage, can be used to traverse arrays efficiently,
and the interplay between them. It delves modify array elements, and pass arrays
into practical applications, best practices, to functions. This synergy between
and common pitfalls, equipping pointers and arrays enhances the
programmers with the knowledge to programmer's ability to manage memory
leverage these powerful tools effectively. and create robust, high performance
applications.
Introduction
This presentation aims to demystify
In the world of C programming, pointers and arrays, providing clear
understanding pointers and arrays is crucial explanations, examples, and practical
for mastering the language. Pointers provide insights to help programmers harness
a way to access and manipulate memory their full potential. Whether you are a
directly, allowing for more efficient and beginner or looking to deepen your
flexible code. They are variables that store understanding, this overview will serve
memory addresses, enabling dynamic as a valuable resource in your C
memory allocation and the creation of programming journey.
complex data structures like linked lists and
trees.
Arrays, on the other hand, are collections of
elements of the same type, stored in
contiguous memory locations. They offer a
Relationship Between Pointers and to modify the original array
Arrays in C elements.
o For example:
Pointers and arrays in C share a close and void modifyArray(int *arr,
fundamental relationship. This connection is int size) {
pivotal for efficient memory management for(int i = 0; i < size;
and data manipulation. i++)
1. Array Name as a Pointer: o In C, {
the name of an array acts as a pointer arr[i] = arr[i] * 2;
to the first element of the array. For }
example, given an array int arr[5], arr }
is a pointer to arr[0]. This means that
arr holds the address of the first 4. Pointer to Array vs. Array of
element in the array. o You can use Pointers: o A pointer to an
the array name and a pointer array points to the entire array,
interchangeably when accessing array whereas an array of pointers consists
elements. For example, *(arr + 1) is of multiple pointers, each pointing to
equivalent to arr[1]. individual elements or arrays. o
Example of a pointer to an array:
2. Pointer Arithmetic: o Pointers can be
used to navigate through array int (*ptrToArray)[5];
elements. Incrementing a pointer int arr[5] = {1, 2, 3, 4,
(ptr++) moves it to the next element in 5};
the array. This is because the pointer
ptrToArray = &arr;
advances by the size of the data type it
points to (e.g., sizeof(int) for an int o Example of an array of
pointer). o This enables efficient pointers:
traversal and manipulation of array int *arrOfPtrs[5];
elements using pointers.
for(int i = 0; i < 5;
3. Passing Arrays to Functions: o i++) {
When passing an array to a arrOfPtrs[i] =
&arr[i];
function, what is actually passed
is a pointer to the first element of }
the array. This allows functions
Source Code : Flowchart :
Write a C program to find the sum of all elements of
an array using pointers. Start

Algorithm :
1. Start
Initialize array, sum, and
2. Initialize the Array
pointer
// Start by defining an array and its size.
3. Initialize the Pointer
// Declare a pointer that will traverse through the
array.
Set pointer to the start of
4. Initialize the Sum
the array
// Declare a variable to keep track of the sum.
5. Traverse the Array Using the Pointer
// Iterate through the array elements using the
pointer, adding each element to the sum
variable.
false
6. Output the Result
// Print the sum of all the array elements. i < sizeof(array)
7. Stop

true

Add element to sum

Move pointer to next

element

Print sum

End
Code

#include <stdio.h>
int main()
{
int n;
Test Case:
printf("Enter the size of array : ");
scanf("%d",&n);
int i, sum = 0, arr[n]; // Example array
printf("Enter elements of array of size[%d]
:\n",n);
for(i=0; i<n; i++)
{
scanf("%d",&arr[i]);
}
int *ptr;
ptr = arr; // Pointer to the first element of
the array
// Loop through the array using the pointer
for ( i = 0; i < n; i++)
{
sum += *(ptr + i); // Dereference the
pointer to access array elements
}
printf("\nSum of all elements: %d\n", sum);
return 0;
}

Conclusion :

In conclusion, pointers and arrays are programming techniques. Mastery of these

indispensable tools in C programming. Their concepts is essential for any C programmer,
close relationship allows for efficient data enabling them to harness the full power of
manipulation and memory management. By the language.
understanding how pointers can be used to
traverse and modify arrays, programmers
can write more flexible and optimized code.
This synergy not only enhances the
capability to handle complex data structures
but also paves the way for dynamic memory
allocation and more sophisticated
 Reference covers a wide range of C programming
1. The C Programming Language by Brian topics, including pointers and arrays.
W. Kernighan and Dennis M. Ritchie: A 4. Online Resources:
seminal book that introduces the • GeeksforGeeks: A popular
fundamentals of C, including pointers programming website that provides
and arrays. tutorials and articles on various C
2. C Programming: A Modern Approach by programming topics.
K. N. King: A comprehensive guide to C
• TutorialsPoint: Another excellent
programming, offering detailed
resource for learning C programming
explanations and examples.
concepts with practical examples.
3. Programming in C by Stephen G.
Kochan: A beginner-friendly book that • Cprogramming.com: Offers tutorials,
articles, and resources for C and C++
programming.