short int range in c++

The short int data type in C++ represents a signed integer with a smaller range compared to the int data type. Here are the steps to understand the range of short int in C++:

  1. Determine the number of bits: The short int data type uses 16 bits to store values. This means it can represent 2^16 = 65,536 unique values.

  2. Determine the range: Since short int is a signed data type, it can represent both positive and negative values. The range is divided symmetrically around zero. The minimum value that short int can hold is -(2^(bits-1)) and the maximum value is (2^(bits-1))-1.

In this case, the minimum value is -(2^(16-1)) = -32,768 and the maximum value is (2^(16-1))-1 = 32,767.

  1. Understand the range limitations: It's important to note that the range of short int is limited compared to the int data type, which typically uses 32 bits in most implementations. This means that short int can represent a smaller range of values compared to int. If a value exceeds the range of short int, it may result in overflow or underflow.

For example, if you try to assign a value greater than 32,767 or less than -32,768 to a short int variable, the value will wrap around and may not be accurate.

  1. Consider usage and optimization: The short int data type is often used when memory optimization is crucial, and the range of values to be stored is within the range of short int. If you need to store larger values or require a wider range, it's recommended to use the int data type instead.

Summary:

  • The short int data type in C++ uses 16 bits to store values.
  • The range of short int is -(2^(bits-1)) to (2^(bits-1))-1.
  • For short int, the range is -32,768 to 32,767.
  • short int is useful for memory optimization when the range of values falls within its limitations.