? PHP array_range() Function

? Quick Overview

The array_range() function in PHP (implemented using range()) is used to generate an array containing values between a specified start and end point. An optional step value allows control over how values increase or decrease.

? Key Concepts

• Sequential Data – Automatically creates ordered arrays.
• Flexible Step – Supports positive and negative step values.
• Numeric & Character Ranges – Works with numbers and letters.

? Syntax / Theory

The basic syntax of the range function is:

// Generates an array from start to end with optional step
range(start, end, step);

? Code Example 1: Basic Range

// Generate numbers from 1 to 5
<?php
$array = range(1, 5);
print_r($array);
?>

? Code Example 2: Range with Step

// Generate numbers from 1 to 10 with step of 2
<?php
$array = range(1, 10, 2);
print_r($array);
?>

? Interactive Understanding

Imagine the function as a number line generator. You define where to start, where to stop, and how many steps to jump each time.

// Visualizing a reverse range using a negative step
<?php
$reverse = range(10, 1, -1);
print_r($reverse);
?>

? Use Cases

• Creating pagination numbers
• Generating loop counters
• Building dropdown values
• Producing test datasets