GATE CS 2026 Set 2 — Question 17

MCQ+1 / -0.33EasyHeap & Garbage CollectionRuntime EnvironmentsCompiler Design

Compiler Design → Runtime Environments → Heap & Garbage Collection

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

In C runtime environment, which one of the following is stored in heap?

Correct answer (C) A dynamically allocated array of integers created using malloc() function call Solution In the C memory layout, memory is typically divided into several segments: 1. Stack Segment : Stores local variables (automatic variables), function parameters, and the return address of a function . When a function is called, a new stack frame is created; when it returns, the frame is destroyed. 2. Heap Segment : Used for dynamic memory allocation . Memory is allocated at runtime using functions like malloc(), calloc(), or realloc() and must be manually managed (freed) by the programmer. 3. Data Segment : Stores global and static variables . It is further divided into initialized data and uninitialized data (BSS). 4. Code (Text) Segment : Stores the executable instructions of the program. Analysis of Options: (A) A static variable is stored in the Data segment. (B) An array declared inside a function (local variable) is stored on the Stack. (C) A dynamically allocated array created using malloc() is stored on the Heap . This is the correct answer. (D) The return address of a function is stored on the Stack as part of the activation record. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

Review answer and solution without JavaScript

Interactive answer checking needs JavaScript. The published solution is available below.

Correct answer (C) A dynamically allocated array of integers created using malloc() function call Solution In the C memory layout, memory is typically divided into several segments: 1. Stack Segment : Stores local variables (automatic variables), function parameters, and the return address of a function . When a function is called, a new stack frame is created; when it returns, the frame is destroyed. 2. Heap Segment : Used for dynamic memory allocation . Memory is allocated at runtime using functions like malloc(), calloc(), or realloc() and must be manually managed (freed) by the programmer. 3. Data Segment : Stores global and static variables . It is further divided into initialized data and uninitialized data (BSS). 4. Code (Text) Segment : Stores the executable instructions of the program. Analysis of Options: (A) A static variable is stored in the Data segment. (B) An array declared inside a function (local variable) is stored on the Stack. (C) A dynamically allocated array created using malloc() is stored on the Heap . This is the correct answer. (D) The return address of a function is stored on the Stack as part of the activation record.

Continue learning with Success Tracker

Use Success Tracker to ask about the reasoning, then try another GATE CS question to check your understanding.

AI-powered practice· Unlimited practice on eligible plans

PYQs with solutions: Attempt available previous-year questions, then compare your reasoning with the worked solution. Coverage varies by stream.
Practice that adapts: Choose a topic, work on weaker areas and bookmark questions to revisit. Your attempts feed your progress tracking.
AI doubt support: Ask follow-up questions about a step or concept while practising, instead of stopping at the final answer.

Unlimited practice is available on eligible plans. Free practice and AI usage have limits; check the current plan allowances before choosing.

This page stays readable without an account. AI responses can be wrong; check them against the solution and source material.