What is the difference between pass by reference and pass by value in C/C++?

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Answered by suresh

Difference between Pass by Reference and Pass by Value in C/C++

Difference between Pass by Reference and Pass by Value in C/C++

When passing parameters to functions in C/C++, you can use pass by reference or pass by value methods. The main difference between these two approaches lies in how the function parameters are handled:

  • Pass by Value: In pass by value, a copy of the actual parameter is passed to the function. Any changes made to the parameter within the function do not affect the original value outside the function.
  • Pass by Reference: In pass by reference, the memory address of the actual parameter is passed to the function. This allows the function to directly manipulate the original value outside the function, as the changes are reflected in the original variable.

It is important to choose the appropriate method based on the requirements of your program to avoid unintended side effects or unnecessary memory usage.

Answer for Question: What is the difference between pass by reference and pass by value in C/C++?