What Are the Differences Between Static and Dynamic Polymorphism?

What Are the Differences Between Static and Dynamic Polymorphism?

Static polymorphism is achieved at compile time, while dynamic polymorphism is achieved at runtime.

Static polymorphism uses templates and function overloading, as in this example:

            template
            void func(T a) { a.print(); }
            

Dynamic polymorphism uses virtual functions, which are resolved at runtime:

            class Base { virtual void print() = 0; };
            class Derived : public Base { void print() override { std::cout << "Derived"; } };
            

Static polymorphism provides faster execution, while dynamic polymorphism offers more flexibility.

Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right technique based on performance or flexibility needs.