Applications of Polymorphism in C++

1. Simplifies Code Maintenance – Offers a single interface for multiple behaviors.
2. Promotes Extensibility – New classes can reuse common interfaces.
3. Supports Loose Coupling – Base class handles common functionality; derived classes override specifics.
4. Enables Plugin-Like Systems – Useful in GUI frameworks and game engines.
5. Widely Used in Libraries and APIs – Especially in STL and frameworks.

Advantages of Polymorphism

1. Code Reusability – Write less code, reuse common interfaces.
2. Improved Readability – Clear and cleaner structure for large programs.
3. Dynamic Behavior – Real-world behavior simulation becomes possible.
4. Encourages Interface-Based Design – Promotes abstraction and modularity.
5. Simplifies Testing – Can mock objects with common base class.

Disadvantages / Limitations of Polymorphism

1. Performance Overhead – Runtime polymorphism may be slower due to dynamic binding.
2. Complex Debugging – Tracing through polymorphic calls may be harder.
3. Increased Complexity – Might introduce unnecessary abstraction.
4. No Constructor Polymorphism – Virtual constructors aren’t supported directly.
5. Memory Overhead – Vtables and pointers add to memory usage.