What are the differences between abstraction and encapsulation in programming?

What are the differences between abstraction and encapsulation in programming?

Abstraction is the concept of hiding complex realities while exposing only the necessary parts. Encapsulation, on the other hand, is about bundling the data and methods that operate on that data within one unit, typically a class.

Can you give me an example of abstraction?

Sure! An example of abstraction is using a car. You can drive it without knowing how the engine works; you just need to know how to use the steering wheel, pedals, and gear shift.

And what about encapsulation? Can you explain that with an example?

Absolutely! In a class representing a bank account, encapsulation would mean that the account balance is private, and you can only modify it through methods like deposit and withdraw, ensuring controlled access.

So, abstraction focuses on what an object does, while encapsulation focuses on how it does it?

Exactly! Abstraction simplifies the interface, while encapsulation protects the internal state of the object.