What is the difference between asynchronous and synchronous functions?

What is the difference between asynchronous and synchronous functions?

Synchronous functions execute sequentially, blocking the next operation until the current one finishes. Asynchronous functions, on the other hand, allow other operations to run while waiting for a task to complete.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! A synchronous example is a function that reads a file and returns its content before moving on. An asynchronous example is a function that fetches data from an API and allows the program to continue running while waiting for the response.

What are the advantages of using asynchronous functions?

Asynchronous functions improve performance by allowing multiple operations to run concurrently, making better use of resources and reducing wait times.

Are there any downsides to using asynchronous functions?

Yes, they can introduce complexity in error handling and debugging, and may lead to callback hell if not managed properly.