Rust: Addressing Complexity and Security

The assignment content discusses the concept of null references in programming languages, specifically how they can cause complexities and code insecurities. It also explores how Rust addresses this issue with guaranteed memory safety, as well as other features such as threads without data races, trait-based generics, and type inference that improve secure coding. The assignment asks to compare these concepts with those used in C or C++, and finally, it requests an ethical perspective on choosing between using Rust or C++ for building a software application.

1. In his presentation at QCon 2009 in London, Tony Hoare refers to
his invention of the null reference as his ``billion-dollar
mistake'' because he ``couldn't resist the temptation to put in a
null reference, simply because it was so easy to
implement''.Using specific code snippets in C
or C++ (no handwaving please), explain how null references can
indeed cause complexities and code insecurities.
2. How does the programming language Rust address the issue in the context of guaranteed
memory safety? Contrast Rust with your C/C++ examples.
3. Rust also provides threads without data races, trait-based generics, and type inference. For
each feature,discuss how it helps to improve secure coding. Compare these
concepts with those used in C or C++, using class discissions and/or
the Seacord textbook.Be specific!
4. Suppose you are working for a large company, and the boss gives
you a choice between using Rust or C++ to build a software
applciation. From an ethical perspective, discuss which language you
would choose. Explain your reasons clearly.