Question

Special variables that hold copies of function arguments are called __________.

Short answer

Answer: Parameters

Step-by-step solution

Fill in the blank with the term for special variables

The term for special variables that hold copies of function arguments is called "parameters."

Key concepts

C++ Programming

C++ programming serves as a cornerstone of computer science and software development. It is renowned for its efficiency and control over system resources, making it a popular choice for building applications where performance is critical. In C++, functions are a fundamental construct that lets you divide your code into manageable, reusable parts. They boost code readability and reduce redundancy, which is essential for maintaining large-scale projects. Understanding how functions work, including how they interact with variables and arguments, is a pivotal skill in harnessing the full power of C++. The language's robust type system, including both built-in and user-defined types, also plays a crucial role in function interactions. The mastery of C++ can open doors to a wide range of programming opportunities, from game development to embedded systems.

Function Arguments

When a function in C++ is called, the values passed to it are known as function arguments. These are essential for functions to perform tasks with different inputs, allowing for versatile and dynamic code. Imagine a simple function that adds two numbers. The numbers being added are the function's arguments. In the textbook exercise, these arguments would be passed into the function when it's called, and within the function, they're referred to by their corresponding parameters.

For instance, a function defined as int add(int x, int y) has two parameters, x and y. When calling this function as add(4, 5), the numbers 4 and 5 are the arguments. The function will process these inputs and provide a result, in this case, the sum of 4 and 5, which is 9. It's crucial to ensure the arguments match the type and number expected by the function for it to execute correctly.

Variables in Programming

In programming, variables are named storage locations in the computer's memory that can hold data. Their value can be changed, which is why they're aptly named 'variables'. They are the basic units of storage and come in different types such as integers, floating-point numbers, characters, and more. C++ requires that each variable be declared with a specific type before it can be used.

In the context of functions, the variables that 'capture' the passed arguments are called parameters. They are like placeholders for the values that will be used within the function. When you define a function, you specify these parameters within the parentheses following the function name, dictating what type of arguments the function expects to receive. Once a function is called, the arguments are stored in these parameters, thus allowing the function to perform operations using the input data. It's a mistake to conflate parameters and arguments: parameters are the variable names within the function's definition, while arguments are the actual values passed to the function when it's called.