What are constructors and virtual functions in C++?

Can you explain what constructors are in C++?

Sure! Constructors are special member functions that are called when an object of a class is created. They initialize the object's attributes.

What about virtual functions? How do they work?

Virtual functions allow derived classes to override methods in a base class. They enable polymorphism, letting you call derived class methods through base class pointers.

Can you give me an example of a constructor and a virtual function?

Of course! Here's a simple example:

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

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

In this example, when you create a Derived object, both constructors are called.

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

If you don't use the virtual keyword, the method in the base class will be called instead of the derived class's method, leading to static binding.