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Polymorphism means “many forms”. In C++, the same name (function/operator) can behave differently depending on context.
Example idea:
add(2,3) and add(2.5, 3.2) → same name, different types+ works for integers and also for strings (conceptually)Polymorphism is important because it provides:
Decided by compiler during compilation.
Decided during execution.
Function overloading: same function name but different parameter list.
Overloading can differ by:
Overloading cannot be done only by changing:
Why useful:
Operator overloading lets us give user-defined meaning to operators for class objects.
Why needed:
a + b for complex numbersImportant: operator overloading does not change precedence/associativity rules; it only changes behavior.
Most operators can be overloaded, but some cannot.
Common non-overloadable operators (remember at least 2 for exam):
:: (scope resolution). (member access)?: (ternary)sizeofYou can overload operators by defining a special function operator<symbol>.
Example idea:
Complex operator+(Complex c)It can be a:
A virtual function is a member function in a base class that we expect to override in derived classes.
When we call a virtual function using a base class pointer/reference, C++ performs dynamic binding and calls the derived version.
Why needed:
Concept:
Base *p;p = new Derived;If Base::show() is virtual and Derived overrides it, then p->show() calls Derived::show().
A pure virtual function is written as:
virtual void f() = 0;A class containing a pure virtual function becomes an abstract class.
. or :: (not allowed).virtual keyword in base (then early binding happens).Base pointer p → points to Derived object
Call p->show()
If show() is virtual → run-time decides → Derived::show() runs
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Polymorphism means “many forms”. In C++, the same name (function/operator) can behave differently depending on context.
Example idea:
add(2,3) and add(2.5, 3.2) → same name, different types+ works for integers and also for strings (conceptually)Polymorphism is important because it provides:
Decided by compiler during compilation.
Decided during execution.
Function overloading: same function name but different parameter list.
Overloading can differ by:
Overloading cannot be done only by changing:
Why useful:
Operator overloading lets us give user-defined meaning to operators for class objects.
Why needed:
a + b for complex numbersImportant: operator overloading does not change precedence/associativity rules; it only changes behavior.
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Compile-time polymorphism (static binding) is decided during compilation. Examples:
Compiler selects correct function/operator based on signature.
Run-time polymorphism (dynamic binding) is decided during execution using virtual functions.
Example: Base *p = new Derived; p->show(); calls Derived::show() if show() is virtual and overridden.
This ensures correct method is executed for derived objects.
Polymorphism means many forms—the same name can perform different actions depending on context.
Types:
Thus polymorphism improves flexibility and supports reusable, extensible designs.