Parameter and Argument Passing

In any programming language, when we create a function, it requires input to perform some task. These inputs are called parameters and arguments. Parameter and argument passing are extremely important concepts for a function because, without them, we cannot pass any data into the function.

Parameter: A parameter is a variable used at the time of function declaration. It tells the function what type of data it will receive as input. It acts as a placeholder in the function.

Argument: An argument is the actual data that we pass when calling a function. It provides a value in place of the parameter.

Pass by Value: In this method, a copy of the argument given as a parameter to the function is created. This means that changing the value inside the function does not affect the original argument.

Pass by Reference: In this method, the actual address of the argument given as a parameter to the function is passed. This means that the function can change the actual value of the argument.

Advantages: Code reusability, clarity and organization of code, data encapsulation, resource optimization (with pass by reference), and flexibility.

Disadvantages: Complexity (with too many parameters), potential for errors (especially with pass by reference), performance issues (with pass by value for large structures), and dependency on correct arguments.