What is the difference between header files and source files

The difference between header files and source files: 1. Different functions and uses. Header files are mainly used to declare and define variables, functions, classes, structures, etc. for use in other source files. Source files include 2. The compilation process is different. During the compilation process, header files are usually included in the source file. When the source file is compiled, the compiler will find and include the required header files; 3. It can Readability and maintainability are different. The main purpose of the header file is to provide interfaces and declarations so that other source files can use them. By placing declarations and interfaces in the header file, it is easier to read.

#Header files and source files are two file types that are often encountered in programming. Although they differ in file extensions, they have clear differences in functionality and purpose.

Header File usually has a .h file extension, while Source File usually has a .c, .cpp or .m file extension. The difference between header files and source files will be introduced in detail below.

1. Function and purpose:

Header files are mainly used to declare and define variables, functions, classes, structures, etc. for use in other source files. They usually include function prototypes, class definitions, macro definitions, and global variable declarations. The main purpose of a header file is to provide interfaces and declarations so that other source files can use these declarations without knowing the specific implementation details.

The source file contains the actual implementation code of the program. They include the specific implementation of functions, class method definitions, initialization of global variables, etc. The main purpose of the source file is to implement and define the functions, classes and variables declared in the header file.

2. Compilation process:

During the compilation process, header files are usually included in the source files. When a source file is compiled, the compiler finds and includes the required header files so that the functions, classes, and variables declared in them can be correctly recognized and used at compile time.

Source files and header files are usually compiled together into executable files. The compiler matches the implementation code in the source file with the declarations in the header file to ensure that functions and variables are used correctly.

3. Readability and maintainability:

The main purpose of the header file is to provide interfaces and declarations so that other source files can use them. By placing declarations and interfaces in header files, you make your code clearer and easier to read. Header files also improve the maintainability of your code because any changes to functions, classes, or variables only require a single modification in the header file, rather than all source files that use them.

The source file contains the actual implementation code, which may be complex. The main purpose of the source file is to implement and define the functions, classes and variables declared in the header file. By placing implementation code in source files, you can make your code more modular and readable.

In summary, there are obvious differences in functions and uses between header files and source files. Header files are mainly used for declarations and definitions, providing interfaces and declarations for use by other source files. The source files contain the actual implementation code. Header files and source files work together to achieve code modularity, readability, and maintainability.

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