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A prototype is a fundamental concept in programming, particularly in object-oriented programming (OOP). It is a mechanism that allows objects to inherit properties and methods from other objects. Prototypes are central to JavaScript's object model and are used to implement inheritance.
1. Prototypes in Programming
Definition:
- A prototype is an object that serves as a template for other objects.
- Objects can inherit properties and methods from their prototype, enabling code reuse and sharing of behavior.
Key Concepts:
- Prototype Chain: Objects are linked to their prototype, and the prototype may itself have a prototype, forming a chain. If a property or method is not found on an object, the runtime looks up the chain until it finds the property or reaches the end of the chain.
- Delegation: Instead of copying properties, objects delegate access to their prototype, making memory usage efficient.
Languages That Use Prototypes:
- JavaScript: The most well-known prototype-based language.
- Lua: Uses prototypes for its metatable system.
- Self: A pioneering prototype-based language that inspired JavaScript.
- Io: A small, prototype-based language.
Connections:
| - Prototypes in JavaScript |
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| Sources: |