What are virtual keywords in C++?

What are virtual keywords in C++?

In C++, the virtual keyword is used to indicate that a method can be overridden in a derived class.

Why would I want to use virtual functions?

Virtual functions allow for dynamic polymorphism, enabling you to call derived class methods through base class pointers.

Can you give me an example of how to use virtual functions?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

class Base {
public:
    virtual void show() { cout << "Base class"; }
};

class Derived : public Base {
public:
    void show() override { cout << "Derived class"; }
};

Base* b = new Derived();
b->show(); // Outputs: Derived class

What happens if I don't use the virtual keyword?

If you don't use the virtual keyword, the base class method will be called, even if you have overridden it in the derived class.