C++: Passing Parameters to a Function

Thread starter AllenHe
Start date Jan 9, 2012
Tags

Parameters

In summary, passing parameters to a function in C++ allows for the input of data values that can be used within the function's code. Parameters can be passed by value, by reference, or by pointer in C++. Pass by reference allows for direct access to the original parameter's value, while pass by pointer allows for access to the address of the parameter's value. Default parameters can be specified in the function declaration and multiple values can be returned by using pass by reference or pass by pointer for some of the parameters.

Jan 9, 2012

AllenHe

Can anyone explain to me how are the parameter passed on to the function in C++?

Technology news on Phys.org

Jan 10, 2012

CompuChip

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Do you mean this?

Code:

void f(int x) { ... }

// ...
f(3);
// ...

Or are you asking how it works with the stack and all that?

Jan 13, 2012

AllenHe

Yes. But I already got the solution from somewhere else.Thanks anyway.

1. What is the purpose of passing parameters to a function in C++?

Passing parameters to a function allows for the input of data values that can be used within the function's code. This allows for the function to perform different actions depending on the data values provided.

2. How are parameters passed to a function in C++?

In C++, parameters can be passed to a function by value, by reference, or by pointer. By value means that a copy of the parameter's value is passed to the function. By reference means that the function has access to the original parameter's value. By pointer means that the function has access to the address of the parameter's value.

3. What is the difference between pass by reference and pass by pointer?

In pass by reference, the function has direct access to the original parameter's value and can modify it. In pass by pointer, the function has access to the address of the parameter's value and can modify it indirectly by dereferencing the pointer. Additionally, pass by pointer allows for passing of null values, whereas pass by reference does not.

4. How do default parameters work in C++?

In C++, default parameters can be specified in the function declaration. This means that if no value is passed for a particular parameter, the default value will be used. Default parameters must be specified at the end of the parameter list and any parameters after the default parameter must also have default values.

5. Can C++ functions return multiple values?

No, C++ functions can only return a single value. However, multiple values can be returned by using pass by reference or pass by pointer for some of the parameters. This allows for the function to modify the values of these parameters, which can then be used in the calling code.