There are several ways to clear a char array in C programming. Some are quick and simple, while some involve a bit of code. The cleansing of char arrays can be time-consuming and tedious. If done in the wrong way, the char array may not be completely emptied out and will cause errors in the program. As such, read on to learn about the various ways to clear a char array correctly.
Step by Step Guide
Using memset() – This C library function that sets all the elements in the char array to a certain value, of your choosing. The syntax for this method is memset(array_name, value, size of array)
Using a loop – This method is more time-consuming than the other since it involves a looping through the char array and setting it to empty ‘\0’. The syntax for the loop method is for (int i = 0; i<index_of_last_element; i++) array_name[i] = '\0'
Initializing it with an empty string – If you are declaring a char array in the same line that you want to clear it, and it will occupy the same data block in memory, then you can initialize it with an empty string. The syntax for this is char array_name[array_size] = {'\0'}
FAQ
Q1. What is a char array in C?
A1. A char array is a set of characters stored together as succesive memory locations in the form of an array. In C, each character is denoted as a 8-bit number, which is stored in form of an array.
Q2. Why is clearing a char array important?
A2. Clearing a char array is important to ensure that the char array is completely empty, such that any residual data remains in the block of memory allocated to the char array. Failing to do so might lead to errors while program is executing.
Q3. Does memset() do the same thing as a loop?
A3. No, memset() is a library function that sets all elements of the char array to a certain value. On the other hand, looping through the char array and setting it to empty '\0' does the same, but it's more time-consuming.
Q4. Is there a way of initialising a char array with an empty string?
A4. Yes, if you are declaring a char array and it is occupying the same data block in memory, then you can initialise it with an empty string.
Q5. Can a char array be cleared manually?
A5. Yes, a char array can be cleared manually by looping through the array and setting all the elements to empty ‘\0’. Alternatively, you can apply memset() to do the same.