Difference between C and C++ with Code Example

The primary difference that exists between these two programming languages is that C is a procedural language for programming and fails to support objects and classes. On the other hand, C++ is a combination of object-oriented and procedural programming languages. In other words, it is oft referred to as a hybrid language as it is a superset of C and supports more features. Through this article, we aim to inform you about what is C++ language, what is C language, the fundamental difference between C and C++, and so forth. Read on to know more.

C and C++ Difference

What is C Language?

C programming language can be defined as a middle-level language. It was the brainchild of Dennis Ritchie and was first developed in 1972 at Bell Labs. As C successfully combines the features and capabilities of a high-level language and low-level language, it can be categorised as a middle-level language. C language is a classical high-level type language used for programmers to develop portable applications and firmware. Though C was first developed with the intent of writing system software, it has transformed itself as an appropriate language for the development of firmware systems.

Code Example of C Program :

#include<stdio.h>

int main() {
   int n1=10;
   int n2=25;
   int add=n1+n2;
   printf("Sum = %i", add);
}

Output :

Sum = 35

Features of C Language

• This robust language comes packaged as a rich set of operators and built-in functions that are equipped for the development of any complex program.
• The C compiler is a combination of the capabilities of a high-level language and assembly language.
• The programs scripted in C are quick and efficient courtesy of the presence of dominant operators and different data types.
• Highly portable, the programs written in C language can be run on different machines with or without any modifications.
• C programs can extend themselves.
• The programs written in C language are a collection of functions that are ably supported by the C library. Programmers can also create new features to add to the C library.

Today, C is the most widely used programming language in context to the development of operating systems and embedded systems.

What is C++ Language?

C++ is a popular computer programming language that combines the features of Simula67 and C programming language. Simula67 is among the first object-oriented programming languages. Bjarne Stroustrup developed C++ in 1979. C++ introduced the concept of objects and classes. This intermediate or middle-level programing language is a smart combination of the features of high and low-level programming languages. Initially, C++ was referred to as "C with classes" because it showcased various features of C language. In other words, when C language gains the property of inheritance with classes, then it is known as C++

Code Example of C++ Program:

#include <iostream>

using namespace std;

int main() {
    int a=10;
    int b=25;
    int sum=x+y;

    cout<<"Sum = " << z;
}

Output : Sum = 35

Features of C++ language

• It is a compiled language that is equipped to be implemented on various platforms.
• C++ is an object-oriented program that also supports low-level memory manipulations.
• The primary feature of C++ is that it is a collection of various predefined classes; they are data types capable of multiple time use.
• C++ language facilitates the declaration of different user-defined classes.
• The newly declared classes can accommodate member functions for the implementation of essential functionality.
• Multiple objects of specific classes can be defined for the creation of various functions inside the class.

Overall, C++ language is used by modern-day developers for its significant features of encapsulation, abstraction, polymorphism, etc.

Conclusion:

We hope that you have attained a good idea about the basics of C and C++ languages to take care of your coding. The pointers related to C vs C++ and the above-mentioned comparative features will guide you forward to enable your cause with both programming languages. In case you have any other points of distinction between C and C++ that we may have missed out, please let us know in the Comments section below.