Difference Between Fundamental Data Types and Derived Data Types (2024)

Overview

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When it comes to computer programming, understanding the distinction between basic and derived data types is critical. This article will delve into the differences between these two data types in detail, but before that, let's briefly discuss what data types are.

In computer programming, a data type is a classification that tells the compiler or interpreter how to interpret the data. Essentially, there are two main categories of data types:

Derived Data Type
Basic/ Primitive Data Type

What is a Basic Data Type?

In languages like C and C++, every variable has an associated data type. Each data type requires a certain amount of memory and has specific operations that can be performed on it.

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What is a Derived Data Type?

Derived data types are more complex and are typically defined by the user, such as a class or structure in C++. Examples of derived data types include Arrays, Classes, Unions, Pointers, and Enumerations.

Distinguishing Between Basic and Derived Data Types

To understand the differences between Basic and Derived Data Types, let's take a look at the following comparison:

Parameters	Basic Data Types	Derived Data Types
Complexity Level	Basic data types are simple and often referred to as primitive data types.	Derived data types are more complex and are typically composed of basic data types.
Examples	Examples of basic data types include Boolean, String, and Double.	Derived data types include Lists, Tuples, and Dictionaries.
Element Specification	Basic data types include characters represented as char, unsigned char, signed char, etc.	Derived data types use pointers to store the address of variables.
Data Storage	Basic data types include integers without decimal digits, classified as unsigned or signed, further categorized as int, long int, and short int.	Derived data types use arrays to store similar types of data.
Usage	The void type is used when a return value is not required.	Unions, like structures, allow for the sharing of the same memory location by all members.
Value Grouping	Floats are used for decimal numbers and can be classified as double, float, or long double.	Structures are used to group different types of items into a single type.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Fundamental Data Types?

All the variables present in C++ and C have associated data types. Every data type needs a different amount of memory. Also, each of them has specific operations that one can perform over them.

What are Derived Data Types?

This type of data type is generally used by a user itself, for example, a structure or a class in the C++ language. The Derived Data Types include Pointers, Enumeration, Union, Class, Structures, Arrays, etc.

What is the difference between Fundamental and Derived Data Types?

Fundamental data types are very basic and include Void, Float, Integer, and Character. Derived data types are an aggregation of the fundamental data types and include Structures, Unions, Arrays, and Pointers.

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