Random Number

[thephysicsguru]

Hello,

For the purposes of an algorithm class that I am taking, we are asked to create an array of random numbers which will be used in a specified function. My question pertains to rand() and srand(). When should I use srand()? How often should it be used? Some of the material I've read online has suggested something of the sort:

#include <iostream>
#include <cstlib>

void getRandom () { 
std::cout << "Random number: " << rand() << std::endl;
}
int main() {

srand(time(0)); // only call once in program?

getRandom();

return 0;
}

Thanks in advance.

L

[firedraco]

Use srand() *once* in your program as you have done.

[hanst99]

Unless you want to reconstruct a specific random number sequence that is.

[thephysicsguru]

To hanst99,

We are just using the random numbers to simulate possible user input. For example rand()&101 to represent possible grades on an exam.

The srand should be called at the beginning of the program (just after main), correct? I'm looking at creating a class in which the random function will a method of the class. It probably would not be a good idea to insert the srand() into the constructor of this object.

[3hM2Nwbp]

Personally, if I'm using the the the random implementation in the std namespace, srand is always the first line in the main method.

[BrokenSilenceDev]

What if its a random integer between two other integers?
Like TI-Basics randint(lowest,greatest)

[3hM2Nwbp]

What if its a random integer between two other integers?

int rand = lowest + (rand() % (greatest - lowest));
int between5and10 = 5 + (rand() % 5);

* Oi! You're not the OP.