In C programming, literals are fixed values that are directly written into the code and represent themselves. They provide a way to incorporate specific data into a program without the need for variables. Here are the main types of literals:
1. Integer Literals:
- Represent whole numbers, positive, negative, or zero.
- Can be written in:
- Decimal form (base 10): e.g.,
10,-5,0 - Octal form (base 8, prefixed with 0): e.g.,
021(represents 17 in decimal) - Hexadecimal form (base 16, prefixed with 0x or 0X): e.g.,
0x1F(represents 31 in decimal)
- Decimal form (base 10): e.g.,
2. Floating-Point Literals:
- Represent real numbers with decimal points.
- Consist of a whole number part, a decimal point, and a fractional part.
- Can use scientific notation (e or E for exponent): e.g.,
3.14159,1.25e-3(represents 0.00125)
3. Character Literals:
- Represent single characters enclosed in single quotes.
- Can include:
- Alphabets: e.g.,
'A','a' - Digits: e.g.,
'5' - Special characters: e.g.,
'+','%',' '(space) - Escape sequences: e.g.,
'\n'(newline),'\t'(tab),'\\'(backslash)
- Alphabets: e.g.,
4. String Literals:
- Sequences of characters enclosed in double quotes.
- Represent text or messages.
- Example:
"Hello, world!"
5. Boolean Literals:
- Represent logical values:
true(1) andfalse(0). - Not a fundamental data type in C, but often implemented using integers.
Key Points:
- Literals are not variables; their values cannot be changed during program execution.
- They are stored in specific memory locations based on their data types.
- Literals contribute to code readability and clarity by representing values directly.
- Understanding different literal types ensures accurate data representation in C programs.