What are the benefits of polymorphism in C++?

What are the benefits of polymorphism in C++?

Polymorphism in C++ allows for code reusability, flexibility, and easier maintenance. It enables objects to be treated as instances of their parent class, which simplifies code and enhances functionality.

Can you give me an example of polymorphism in C++?

Sure! For instance, if you have a base class Shape with a method draw(), you can have derived classes like Circle and Square that implement draw() differently. This allows you to call draw() on a Shape pointer, and the correct method will be executed based on the object type.

How does polymorphism improve code maintenance?

Polymorphism improves code maintenance by allowing you to add new classes with minimal changes to existing code. You can introduce new shapes without altering the code that uses the Shape interface, making it easier to extend functionality.

Are there any downsides to using polymorphism?

Yes, while polymorphism offers many benefits, it can introduce complexity and may lead to performance overhead due to dynamic binding. It's important to use it judiciously.