What are some real-world examples of polymorphism in programming?

What are some real-world examples of polymorphism in programming?

Polymorphism allows methods to do different things based on the object it is acting upon. For example, in a graphics application, a base class 'Shape' can have derived classes like 'Circle' and 'Square'. Each shape can implement a method 'draw()' differently.

Can you explain how polymorphism is used in object-oriented programming?

In object-oriented programming, polymorphism enables objects to be treated as instances of their parent class. This allows for flexibility and the ability to call the same method on different objects, leading to more reusable and maintainable code.

What are the benefits of using polymorphism?

The benefits include code reusability, easier maintenance, and the ability to extend functionality without modifying existing code. It also enhances the readability of the code.

Are there any drawbacks to using polymorphism?

Yes, potential drawbacks include increased complexity and the possibility of runtime errors if not managed properly. It can also lead to performance overhead due to dynamic method resolution.