Why Can't I Use References in a C Vector?

The Mystery of Vector References

In the realm of C , vectors reign supreme as a powerful tool for dynamic memory management. However, when it comes to storing references within vectors, a puzzling error may arise.

Consider the following code snippet:

std::vector<int> hello;

This code seamlessly compiles, allowing you to create a vector of integers. But what happens when we attempt to use references instead?

std::vector<int &> hello;

The compiler erupts in error, exclaiming: "pointer to reference is illegal." This curious behavior stems from the fundamental nature of references in C . References, once initialized, remain immutable, bound to their respective referent for their entire lifetime. Assigning a new value to a reference is strictly forbidden.

Unfortunately, this immutability conflicts with the very nature of containers like vectors. Containers require their components to be assignable to ensure proper memory management and modification capabilities. Since references lack this assignability, they are incompatible as vector components.

Therefore, the only viable option for storing references in vectors is to use pointers, which provide the required flexibility to point to different objects over time.

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