Difference Between a Number and Character Array

I have zero coding experience. What exactly is a character array, and how does it differ from a number array? I know in some code like the 'disp' function you use num2str[x] to convert a number array to a character array. What exactly is that doing? The entire concept confuses me.

[Stephen23]

Whoever told you that you need to use num2str in order to display a numeric with disp is wrong:

>> disp([1,2,3])
   1     2     3

Answer 1

[Evan]

These links might be helpful for understanding data types in MATLAB, as well as classes in general:

• Data types
• Wikipedia page on data types
• Fundamental classes (video)
• Classes in the MATLAB Language

The data type of a variable impacts its size, precision, possible values, and the operations that can be performed on it. Certain functions can only be performed on certain data types.