C vs C++

C is a procedural programming language that was developed in the early 1970s. It is a low-level programming language that provides direct access to memory and hardware resources. C programs are compiled into machine code, which can be executed directly by the computer's processor.

C++ is an extension of the C programming language and was developed in the early 1980s. It is a general-purpose programming language that supports both procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms. C++ programs can be compiled into machine code, just like C programs.

Key Differences between C and C++

1. Object-Oriented Programming C does not support object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts such as classes, objects, inheritance, and polymorphism. C++ introduces these OOP features, allowing developers to write code in a more modular and reusable manner.

2. Abstraction and Encapsulation C++ provides better abstraction and encapsulation mechanisms compared to C. Abstraction allows developers to hide implementation details and provide a simplified interface to the users. Encapsulation combines data and methods into a single unit (class) and prevents direct access to the internal data from outside the class.

3. Standard Template Library (STL) C++ includes the Standard Template Library (STL), which provides a collection of reusable data structures and algorithms. The STL offers containers (such as vectors, lists, and queues) and algorithms (such as sorting and searching) that can be used directly in C++ programs. C does not have built-in support for such data structures and algorithms.

4. Exception Handling C++ supports exception handling, which allows developers to handle runtime errors and exceptional situations. Exceptions provide a way to transfer control to a specific block of code (exception handler) when an error occurs. C does not have built-in support for exception handling.

5. Namespaces C++ introduces the concept of namespaces, which allow developers to organize code into logical groups and avoid naming conflicts. Namespaces provide a way to differentiate between entities with the same name. C does not have built-in support for namespaces.

6. Function Overloading C++ allows function overloading, which means having multiple functions with the same name but different parameter lists. The appropriate function is selected based on the arguments passed to it. C does not support function overloading.

7. Operator Overloading C++ allows operators to be overloaded, which means giving them different behaviors for different data types. This enables more natural and intuitive syntax for certain operations. C does not support operator overloading.

8. Compatibility with C C++ is backward compatible with C, which means that most C programs can be compiled and run as C++ programs. C++ includes the necessary features to support C code, such as the ability to include C headers, call C functions, and use C variables.

These are some of the key differences between C and C++. C++ builds upon the features of C and adds additional functionality and flexibility, making it a more powerful and versatile programming language.