What is the usage of shared_ptr in C++?

In C++, a shared_ptr is a smart pointer used to manage dynamically allocated memory resources. It allows multiple shared_ptr objects to share the same pointer to an object on the heap, and automatically releases the object when the last shared_ptr pointing to it is destroyed.

The general steps of using shared_ptr are as follows:

1. import the memory library
2. a smart pointer
3. Initialize using the std::make_shared function: std::shared_ptr ptr = std::make_shared(args);
4. Initialize using the new operator: std::shared_ptr ptr(new T(args));
5. Please restate the following in your own words.
6. “I am going to the store to buy some groceries.”

   “I will go to the store to purchase some food items.”

7. member of ptr
8. member of the object pointed to by ptr
9. clear()
10. a pointer that can be shared between multiple owners
11. Create a new object of type T with the specified arguments and reset the pointer to point to it.
12. a type of smart pointer that manages the ownership of an object in C++
13. a null pointer

The main advantage of shared_ptr is:

1. Automatic memory management is provided, eliminating the need for manual memory release.
2. Allowing multiple shared_ptr objects to share the same pointer helps avoid the manual tracking and management of pointers.
3. When the last shared_ptr pointing to an object is destructed, the object on the heap is automatically released, preventing memory leaks.

It is important to note that the reference counting mechanism of shared_ptr may lead to issues of circular references, where two or more objects reference each other, making it impossible to release memory. To avoid circular references, one can use weak_ptr to break the reference count of one of the objects.