What are the benefits of using immutable data types?

What are the benefits of using immutable data types?

Immutable data types are beneficial because they prevent unintended side effects, making code easier to understand and debug.

Can you give me an example of an immutable data type?

Sure! In JavaScript, strings and numbers are immutable. For instance, when you modify a string, a new string is created instead of changing the original.

How do immutable data types improve performance?

They can enhance performance by enabling optimizations like caching and sharing, as the data doesn't change.

Are there any downsides to using immutable data types?

Yes, one downside is that they can lead to increased memory usage since new instances are created instead of modifying existing ones.

In which programming languages are immutable data types commonly used?

Immutable data types are commonly used in functional programming languages like Haskell, Scala, and also in JavaScript and Python.