Using function return values ​​in C++: types and meanings explained

Function return value is crucial in C, which allows the function to return data of a specified type: the return value type defines the type of data returned by the function, including basic types (such as int, float) and custom types (such as pointers, references) ). The return value meaning varies based on the function's intent, such as returning a result, indicating status, providing a reference, or creating a new object.

Using function return values ​​in C: Detailed explanation of types and meanings

Function return values ​​are a crucial one in C Concept that allows a function to return information to the code that called it. Understanding the types and meanings of function return values ​​is critical to writing robust and efficient code.

Return value type

The return value type of a function defines the type of data it returns. C supports the following basic return value types:

• void: Does not return any value
• Integer type: int, long, short, etc.
• Floating point type: float, double, long double
• Boolean type: bool
• Character: char

You can also use custom types such as pointers, references, structures and classes as return values.

Return value meaning

The meaning of the return value varies depending on the intent of the function. Some common uses include:

• Return results: A function performs a calculation or query and returns the result, such as summing or finding elements.
• Indicate status: The function returns a status code or Boolean value to indicate whether its execution succeeded or failed.
• Provide References: Functions return references to objects or data so that the caller can access or modify them.
• Create a new object: The function creates a new object and returns a reference or pointer to it.

Practical case

Let us take an example to see how to use the function return value. This function calculates the sum of two integers and returns the result:

int sum(int a, int b) {
  return a + b;
}

int main() {
  int result = sum(3, 5);
  std::cout << "Result: " << result << std::endl;
  return 0;
}

In this example, the sum function has a return value of type int, which represents the sum of the two parameters. The main function calls the sum function and stores the result in the result variable. It then outputs the results to the console.

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