In C++ dynamic memory management, which of the following options correctly lists the operators used for allocation and deallocation on the free store (heap)?

Introduction / Context:
Dynamic memory allocation in C++ allows programs to request and release memory at run time. This is done using specific operators that are part of the language syntax. Understanding which operators are used for allocation and deallocation on the free store is fundamental for safe memory management and for avoiding leaks. This question focuses on identifying the correct pair of operators.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are working in C++ rather than in C.
• Dynamic memory allocation on the free store is handled with language level operators, not just with library functions.
• We are interested in the standard pair used together for creating and destroying objects.

Concept / Approach:
In C++, the new operator allocates memory for an object or an array of objects on the free store and calls the appropriate constructor. The corresponding delete operator releases that memory and calls the destructor. For arrays, delete[] is used, but conceptually it is still the delete operator family. While C standard library functions such as malloc and free are also available in C++, they do not call constructors or destructors and are not considered operators in the C++ language sense. Correct pairing of new with delete is crucial to avoid memory leaks and undefined behaviour.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the C++ operators that allocate and free memory while constructing and destroying objects.Step 2: Recall that new is used for allocation and delete for deallocation.Step 3: Option D states that both new and delete are used together for allocation and deallocation.Step 4: Options A and B list only one of the operators each, which is incomplete as an answer to the question.Step 5: Option C and option E either list unrelated names or confuse C library functions with C++ operators, so option D is correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider code such as int* p = new int(5);. This line allocates memory on the free store and initialises the integer with the value 5. When you are done, you write delete p; to release the memory. Similarly, for arrays you might write double* a = new double[10]; and later delete[] a;. In both cases, new is paired with some form of delete, confirming that these operators are used together for dynamic memory management.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A and option B mention only one operator each, but the question asks for the operators involved in allocation and deallocation. Option C lists compare, which is not a memory management operator. Option E mentions malloc and free, which are C library functions, not C++ operators, and they do not integrate with constructors and destructors in the same way.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to mix allocation and deallocation mechanisms, such as allocating with new and freeing with free, which leads to undefined behaviour. Another pitfall is forgetting to call delete or delete[] for every successful call to new or new[], causing memory leaks. Remember for exam questions that the language level operators are new and delete for dynamic memory on the free store.

Final Answer:
Both new and delete are used together for allocation and deallocation.