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Introduction
An array is a data structure. It is a collection of elements having the same data types. The structure is a user-defined data type. The structure is a collection of different data types. Let's dig into the topic and explore the difference between Array and Structure.
An array is a collection of elements of the same data type, stored in contiguous memory locations. Elements are accessed by their index, starting from zero. On the other hand, a structure is a composite data type that can hold elements of different data types. It allows you to group variables under a single name.
This article will help you enhance your knowledge about what arrays and structures are. How they are different from each other?
So let’s dig into the topic and explore more about the difference between array and structure.
What is an Array?
An array is one of the most important and basic parts of data structure. It helps us to arrange or structure the data in a way that can be used easily. This section of the article will help you get a brief introduction to Array with its implementation.
As we have to discuss the difference between array and structure. So we should start by knowing the arrays first. An array is a linear data structure. It is a collection of elements having the same data types. In arrays, the elements are stored in contiguous memory locations. Its elements can be easily accessed with the help of an index.
Syntax of Array
Data_Type Array_Name [Array_size]
What is a Structure?
The structure is a user-defined data type. The structure is a collection of different data types.
In structure, there is no need for the data to be stored in contiguous memory locations. It is similar to arrays, but the difference is that it stores data of different types.
The choice between a structure and an array depends on the data organization. Use arrays for collections of similar elements, while structures are preferable for grouping different data types or related variables under a single name.
What is the major difference between Array and Structure?
Array and Structure differ as the Array contains the data of the same data type, and the structure contains a collection of different data types. The Array's name points to the first element of the Array, so we can say the Array is like a pointer, but the structure is not.
Is a structure an array in C?
No, a structure is not an array in C. A structure is a user-defined data type that groups related data elements, while an array is a collection of elements of the same type accessed by index.
Why is an array called a structure?
An array is not specifically called a structure. In programming terminology, a structure typically refers to a composite data type that groups different variables under a single name. Arrays, on the other hand, are collections of elements of the same data type stored in contiguous memory, often used for organizing and accessing similar data efficiently.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between arrays and structures in programming is essential for effective data organization. Arrays excel in managing collections of similar elements, optimizing access and manipulation, while structures offer flexibility by accommodating different data types under a unified name. We hope this article helped you in your learning.