What are some applications of higher-order functions in programming?

What are some applications of higher-order functions in programming?

Higher-order functions are functions that can take other functions as arguments or return them as results. They are widely used in functional programming and can simplify code, enhance reusability, and enable powerful abstractions.

Can you give me an example of a higher-order function?

Sure! A common example is the map function, which takes a function and a list as arguments, applying the function to each element of the list and returning a new list.

How do higher-order functions improve code readability?

They allow you to express operations at a higher level of abstraction, making the code more concise and easier to understand by reducing boilerplate.

Are there any performance considerations when using higher-order functions?

Yes, while they can make code cleaner, higher-order functions may introduce overhead due to additional function calls, so it's important to consider performance in critical sections.