What is polymorphism in real-world applications?

What is polymorphism in real-world applications?

Polymorphism allows objects to be treated as instances of their parent class, enabling flexibility in code. For example, in a graphics program, both circles and squares can be drawn using a single method that takes a shape object.

Can you give me more examples of polymorphism?

Sure! In a payment system, both credit card and PayPal can be processed through a single method that accepts a payment object. This way, the system can handle different payment types seamlessly.

How does polymorphism improve code maintainability?

Polymorphism enhances maintainability by allowing you to add new classes without changing existing code. This means you can introduce new shapes or payment methods without modifying the core logic.

Are there any downsides to using polymorphism?

Yes, while polymorphism offers flexibility, it can also lead to complexity in understanding the code structure. Overusing it may make the code harder to follow.