What is the difference between pass by value and pass by reference in C++?

What is the difference between pass by value and pass by reference in C++?

In C++, pass by value means passing a copy of the variable's value, while pass by reference means passing the variable itself.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! For pass by value, if you have a function that modifies a variable, the original variable remains unchanged. For pass by reference, changes to the parameter will affect the original variable.

What are the advantages of using pass by reference?

Pass by reference can be more efficient for large data structures since it avoids copying the entire object. It also allows the function to modify the original variable.

Are there any downsides to using pass by reference?

Yes, it can lead to unintended side effects if the function modifies the variable, which might not be expected by the caller.