C++17: std::optional vs std::exception

What are the main differences between std::optional and std::exception in C++17?

std::optional is used for representing optional values, while std::exception is for error handling. std::optional can hold a value or be empty, whereas std::exception is used to signal errors.

When should I use std::optional instead of throwing an exception?

Use std::optional when a function might not return a value, and you want to handle that case gracefully. Use exceptions for error conditions that are exceptional and not part of normal control flow.

Can std::optional be used for error handling?

While std::optional can indicate the absence of a value, it's not ideal for error handling. Exceptions provide more context about the error.

Are there performance implications when using std::optional?

Yes, std::optional can have a slight overhead due to its internal state management, but it's generally efficient for optional value handling.