Re^3: Shrunk array takes more memory than original

why it gets larger from having half of its elements removed.

Because using $#array causes some magic to be attached to the array.

You don't even have to assign to $#array for this to happen, only reference it:


@b = 1 .. 10; print size \@b;;
256

print $#b; print size \@b;;
9
440
[download]

And yes, 184 bytes does seem excessive. You'd think that the magic could be stored once and simply referenced for each array using an 4/8-byte pointer.

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Re^4: Shrunk array takes more memory than original by dave_the_m (Monsignor) on Nov 10, 2015 at 13:12 UTC
Because using $#array causes some magic to be attached to the array. Technically speaking, a temporary magic object is created that points to the array. When the object is assigned to, it truncates the array. This object is freed (well, returned to the pool anyway) at the end of the statement. The array itself never gains any magic. Dave.	[reply]
Re^5: Shrunk array takes more memory than original by BrowserUk (Patriarch) on Nov 10, 2015 at 13:16 UTC
This object is freed (well, returned to the pool anyway) at the end of the statement. Thanks for the correction. But it does raise the question of what is in those 184 bytes that remain? With the rise and rise of 'Social' network sites: 'Computers are making people easier to use everyday' Examine what is said, not who speaks -- Silence betokens consent -- Love the truth but pardon error. "Science is about questioning the status quo. Questioning authority". I knew I was on the right track :) In the absence of evidence, opinion is indistinguishable from prejudice.	[reply]