C++ Resource Lifecycle

Core Question

When does this die?

• Stack: End of scope }.
• Heap: When delete (or smart pointer drop) occurs.
• Static: At program exit (reverse init order).

Error → Design Question

Thinking Prompt

1. Does it have a destructor?

   • Yes → RAII. Good.
   • No → Wrap it.

2. Does it copy?

   • FILE* cannot copy. Delete copy constructor.

Quick Reference