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Implementing an Advanced Huge Integer Class

Copy Constructor, Assignment Operator, and Destructor

Understand the copy constructor, assignment operator, and destructor for huge integer implementation.

We'll cover the following...

In the context of a signed HugeInt class, the proper implementation of a copy constructor, assignment operator (operator=), and destructor is essential to ensure correct behavior and prevent issues related to memory management and data integrity. In this lesson, we’ll discuss why these functions are necessary for our HugeInt class and provide their appropriate implementation.

Your implementation

Review each file carefully to understand the task requirements before starting to code.

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Huge integer constructor, operator=, and destructor

Modified HugeInt ADT

Here’s the updated header file HugeInt.h with the added prototypes for the copy constructor, assignment operator, and destructor:

C++
#include <fstream>
#include <string>
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
class HugeInt
{
    int size;
    int* Ds;
    bool isNeg;
public:
    HugeInt(string s);
    friend ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const HugeInt& I);
    // New additions
    HugeInt(const HugeInt& other); // Copy constructor
    HugeInt& operator=(const HugeInt& other); // Assignment operator
    ~HugeInt(); // Destructor
};

  • Copy constructor: In line 18, the copy constructor creates a new HugeInt object by making a copy of an existing object. It ensures that the new object has its own memory space and is independent of the original object. In short, ensures a deep copy.

  • Assignment operator: In line 19, the assignment operator is used to assign the value of one HugeInt object to another. It copies the content of the source object into the target object, ensuring they have the same values. In short, it also ensures a deep copy.

  • Destructor: In line 20, the destructor is called when an object of the class is destroyed or goes out of ...