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Constants in C Programming

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Constants in C programming are immutable values crucial for data integrity and program stability. They come in integer, floating-point, and character forms, each with specific rules for representation. Defined using 'const' or '#define', constants are used in expressions, array dimensions, and pointers, enhancing code readability and preventing errors.

Understanding Constants in C Programming

Constants are a cornerstone in the C programming language, serving as immutable values that remain constant throughout the execution of a program. They are essential for maintaining data integrity and ensuring the consistent behavior of programs. Constants are used when a value is required to remain unchanged, safeguarding against inadvertent modifications and enhancing code clarity. In C, constants come in various forms, including integer, floating-point, and character constants, each with specific representation rules and purposes within the program.
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Classification and Syntax of C Constants

Constants in C are categorized into integer, floating-point, and character constants. Integer constants are whole numbers and can be represented in decimal, octal (prefixed with '0'), or hexadecimal (prefixed with '0x' or '0X') notation. They must be free of commas and spaces. Floating-point constants, which represent real numbers, can appear in decimal or exponential notation and must include a digit before and after the decimal point. An exponent, when present, is indicated by 'e' or 'E' followed by a whole number. The suffixes 'f' or 'F' for float and 'l' or 'L' for long double precision may be appended. Character constants consist of a single character within single quotes, such as 'a' or '\n', and represent integer values based on the ASCII character set, unlike string constants, which are sequences of characters enclosed in double quotes.

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00

Nature of Constants in C

Immutable values; do not change after initialization.

01

Purpose of Constants in Code Clarity

Enhance readability; indicate fixed values clearly.

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Types of Constants in C

Include integer, floating-point, character; each with unique representation.

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