C Static Variable

C Static Variable

In C, a static variable is a variable that retains its value between function calls and exists for the entire duration of a program. Here are the steps to understand the concept of a static variable in C:

  1. Declaration and Initialization:
  2. When a variable is declared as static inside a function, it retains its value between function calls.
  3. The static variable is initialized only once, and the initialization is performed before the program starts executing.

  4. Here's an example of declaring and initializing a static variable: c void function() { static int count = 0; // rest of the code }

  5. Memory Allocation:

  6. Static variables are allocated memory in the data segment of the program's memory.
  7. The memory for a static variable is allocated when the program starts and deallocated when the program terminates.
  8. The variable retains its value throughout the program's execution.

  9. Here's a snippet illustrating the memory allocation for a static variable: c void function() { static int count = 0; // rest of the code }

  10. Scope:

  11. The scope of a static variable is limited to the function in which it is declared.
  12. The variable is not accessible outside the function in which it is defined.

  13. Here's an example demonstrating the scope of a static variable: c void function() { static int count = 0; // rest of the code }

  14. Lifetime:

  15. The lifetime of a static variable is the entire duration of the program's execution.
  16. The variable retains its value even after the function in which it is defined has finished executing.

  17. Here's a snippet showing the lifetime of a static variable: c void function() { static int count = 0; // rest of the code }

  18. Conclusion:

  19. In summary, a static variable in C retains its value between function calls, is allocated memory in the data segment, has limited scope, and exists for the entire duration of the program's execution.

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