What are C++ templates and how do they relate to inheritance?

What are C++ templates and how do they relate to inheritance?

C++ templates allow you to create functions and classes that work with any data type. Inheritance can be used with templates to create a hierarchy of classes that share common functionality.

Can you give me an example of a template class with inheritance?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

template <typename T>
class Base {
public:
    T value;
    Base(T val) : value(val) {}
};

template <typename T>
class Derived : public Base<T> {
public:
    Derived(T val) : Base<T>(val) {}
};

This defines a base template class and a derived class that inherits from it.

What are the benefits of using templates with inheritance?

Using templates with inheritance allows for code reusability and type safety. You can create a family of classes that operate on different data types without duplicating code.

Are there any drawbacks to using templates in C++?

Yes, some drawbacks include increased compilation times and potential code bloat, as each template instantiation generates new code.