A Guide to Different Types of Arrays in C - Episode 4

Understanding Array Varieties in C Programming

Arrays are fundamental constructs in C programming, enabling the storage of multiple data items under a single variable. In this episode, we explore the nuances of three array types: one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and multi-dimensional arrays.

Exploring One-Dimensional Arrays

A one-dimensional array is a sequential collection of elements of the same data type. Its declaration and access follow this syntax:

int numbers[5]; // Declare an array of 5 integers
numbers[0] = 10;
numbers[1] = 20;
// ...
            

For example, consider this illustration:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int scores[3] = {85, 90, 78};
    printf("First Score: %d\\n", scores[0]);
    return 0;
}
            

Exploring Two-Dimensional Arrays

A two-dimensional array is like a grid with rows and columns. It's declared and accessed using this syntax:

int matrix[3][4]; // Declare a 3x4 matrix
matrix[0][0] = 10;
matrix[1][2] = 25;
// ...
    

For instance, consider this example:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int table[2][3] = {{1, 2, 3}, {4, 5, 6}};
    printf("Element at (1, 2): %d\\n", table[1][2]);
    return 0;
}
    

Understanding Multi-Dimensional Arrays

A multi-dimensional array extends the concept to more dimensions. It's declared and accessed similarly:

int cube[2][3][4]; // Declare a 2x3x4 3D array
cube[0][1][2] = 42;
// ...
    

Here's a brief example:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int space[2][2][2] = {{{1, 2}, {3, 4}}, {{5, 6}, {7, 8}}};
    printf("Element at (1, 0, 1): %d\\n", space[1][0][1]);
    return 0;
}