Can we modify limits.h? Would it render any effect?

Question

Let's say we want to change the value of maximum number of precesses each uid can execute contemporarily, what if we modify value CHILD_MAX in limits.h. Is the value in limits.h just set in order to let us know the 'limits', or we can actually manipulate our system with it? I think since kernel is not recompiled, there should be no reason that we can change the system behaviour in such way.

Answer 1

The values in <limits.h> are just there to inform you of the actual limits. Redefining the macros will not change the actual limits.