What type of container is a vector in C++?

In C++, a vector is classified as a sequential container. This classification is based on how the elements are stored and accessed, with sequential containers maintaining a specific order for the elements they contain. In the case of a vector, elements are stored in contiguous memory locations, allowing for fast access by index.

The sequential nature of vectors enables operations such as traversal, insertion, and deletion to be performed in a predictable sequence based on their order of insertion. Vectors provide dynamic sizing, meaning they can grow or shrink as needed, which further supports their functionality as a sequential container.

Other types of containers, such as associative and unordered containers, organize their elements based on keys or hashing functions rather than maintaining a linear order. Adaptive containers, on the other hand, refer to data structures that adjust their behavior based on the use case, like queuing or stacking elements.

Thus, the classification of vectors as a sequential container is grounded in their design and operational characteristics in the C++ Standard Library.