DYNAMIC MEMORY Meaning and
Definition
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Dynamic memory refers to a type of computer memory that can be allocated and deallocated as needed during the execution of a program. It is a fundamental concept in computer programming that allows for the efficient management and utilization of memory resources.
In dynamic memory allocation, the programmer can request memory from the operating system at runtime, as opposed to static memory allocation where memory is allocated for the entire program at compile-time. This flexibility allows for dynamic memory to be managed dynamically, adapting to the changing memory requirements of a program during its execution.
Dynamic memory is typically allocated on the heap, a region of a computer's memory separate from the stack, where variables and structured data are stored. The allocation and deallocation of dynamic memory are performed using special functions or language constructs, such as "malloc" and "free" in the C programming language.
One of the primary advantages of dynamic memory is that it enables the programmer to allocate just the amount of memory needed by a particular task, reducing waste and optimizing memory usage. However, dynamic memory also requires careful management, as failing to deallocate memory when it is no longer needed can result in memory leaks, where memory is allocated but never freed up, leading to resource exhaustion and potential program crashes.
Overall, dynamic memory provides a means for efficient, on-demand memory allocation and deallocation, enabling programs to adapt and optimize memory usage during runtime.
Etymology of DYNAMIC MEMORY
The etymology of the term "dynamic memory" can be broken down as follows:
1. Dynamic: The word "dynamic" originated from the Greek word "dynamis", meaning "power" or "force". It entered the English language around the early 19th century and relates to something characterized by change, energy, or motion.
2. Memory: The word "memory" originates from the Latin term "memoria", which refers to the faculty of the mind by which information is encoded, stored, and retrieved. It has been used in English since the 14th century.
When combined, "dynamic memory" indicates a type of memory storage that involves constant change, updating, and accessing of data in contrast to static memory, which retains data without the need for constant refreshing.
