Question

How does a value-returning function differ from the void functions?

Short answer

Answer: The main differences between value-returning functions and void functions are: 1. Value-returning functions have a specified return type (e.g., int, float, double), while void functions have a 'void' return type. 2. Value-returning functions return a value after completing their task, whereas void functions do not return any value. 3. When using a value-returning function, it is necessary to store or use the returned value in the calling code, while void functions are used for performing tasks that do not require returning a value.

Step-by-step solution

1. Introduction to value-returning functions

Value-returning functions are functions that return a value after completing a specific task. They have a specified return type, such as int, float, double, or any other data type. In programming, these functions are usually used when a value needs to be computed and returned to another part of the code. For example, a function that calculates the sum of two numbers and returns the result as an integer value. Here's an example of a value-returning function: ``` int add(int x, int y) { return x + y; } ```

2. Introduction to void functions

Void functions, on the other hand, do not return any value after completing their task. They are typically used for tasks that do not need to return a result, such as printing a message on the screen or initializing a variable. In programming, void functions are declared with the 'void' keyword as their return type. Here's an example of a void function: ``` void displayMessage() { cout << "Hello, world!" << endl; } ```

3. Key differences

The main differences between value-returning functions and void functions are: 1. Value-returning functions have a specified return type (e.g., int, float, double), while void functions have a 'void' return type. 2. Value-returning functions return a value after completing their task, whereas void functions do not return any value. 3. When using a value-returning function, it is necessary to store or use the returned value in the calling code, while void functions are used for performing tasks that do not require returning a value. In summary, value-returning functions are used when a value is required to be returned after executing a task, while void functions are used for tasks that do not need a value to be returned.