Answer
std::vector stores elements contiguously, while std::list is a doubly linked list. • vector provides constant-time random access and usually strong cache locality. • list supports constant-time insertion or erasure at a known position without moving other elements. • vector is usually the default sequence container unless stable node positions or frequent interior splicing is required.
💡 C++ Example
std::vector<int> values{1, 2, 3};
int third = values[2];
std::list<int> nodes{1, 2, 3};
nodes.push_front(0);
⚡ Quick Revision
vector is contiguous and random-access; list is node-based and bidirectional.