CPP Polymorphism

🔁 CPP Polymorphism

Polymorphism means “many forms”.
In CPP Polymorphism allows the same function or object to behave differently in different situations.

It is a core pillar of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP).

🔹 1. Types of Polymorphism in C++

C++ supports two main types:

1. Compile-time Polymorphism

   • Function Overloading

   • Operator Overloading

2. Run-time Polymorphism

   • Function Overriding

   • Virtual Functions

🔹 2. Compile-Time Polymorphism (Static Binding)

🔸 Function Overloading

Decision made at compile time.

🔸 Operator Overloading

🔹 3. Run-Time Polymorphism (Dynamic Binding)

Achieved using:

• Inheritance

• Virtual functions

• Base class pointer

🔹 4. Function Overriding

🔹 5. Runtime Polymorphism Example

✔ Function call resolved at runtime
✔ Based on object type, not pointer type

🔹 6. Importance of virtual Keyword

Without virtual:

❌ No polymorphism

🔹 7. Virtual Destructor (Important)

✔ Ensures proper cleanup when deleting derived objects

🔹 8. Pure Virtual Function (Abstract Class)

Derived class must implement it.

🔹 9. Real-Life Example

Same interface, different behavior.

🔹 10. Polymorphism vs Overloading

❌ Common Mistakes

📌 Summary

• Polymorphism allows multiple behaviors

• Two types: compile-time & run-time

• Runtime polymorphism uses virtual

• Base pointer + derived object = polymorphism

• Essential for extensible design