What are virtual functions in C++ and how do they work?

What are virtual functions in C++ and how do they work?

Virtual functions in C++ are member functions in a base class that you expect to override in derived classes. They enable polymorphism.

Can you explain polymorphism in the context of virtual functions?

Polymorphism allows methods to do different things based on the object that it is acting upon, even if they share the same interface.

How do I declare a virtual function in a class?

You declare a virtual function by using the keyword 'virtual' in the base class. For example: virtual void myFunction();.

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

If you don't use the virtual keyword, the function will not be overridden in derived classes, and the base class version will be called.

Can you give an example of virtual functions in action?

Sure! Here's a simple example: if you have a base class Shape with a virtual function draw(), derived classes like Circle and Square can implement their own versions of draw().