Dynamic Polymorphism
Dynamic polymorphism is a core object-oriented programming (OOP) concept where the specific method or function to be executed is determined at runtime based on the actual type of an object, rather than at compile-time. It enables a single interface to represent different underlying forms (data types) through mechanisms like method overriding in inheritance hierarchies. This allows for more flexible and extensible code by decoupling the interface from implementation details.
Developers should learn dynamic polymorphism when building systems that require runtime flexibility, such as in frameworks, libraries, or applications with complex inheritance structures. It is essential for implementing design patterns like Strategy, Command, or Template Method, where behavior can vary dynamically. Use cases include plugin architectures, GUI event handling, and simulation systems where objects of different types need to respond to common messages.