Mastering C++: A Comprehensive Quiz Based on 'Thinking in C++'

What is a key feature of the copy constructor in C++?

1. It deletes temporary objects

2. It initializes new objects as copies of existing objects

3. It prevents copying of objects

4. It overloads the assignment operator

The correct answer is: It initializes new objects as copies of existing objects

The copy constructor in C++ is used to create a new object that is an exact copy of an existing object. This is done by passing an object of the same type as the parameter to the copy constructor, and the new object is then initialized with the same values as the existing object. This option is the correct answer as it accurately describes the main purpose of the copy constructor. Option A is incorrect because the copy constructor does not delete temporary objects, it only creates new ones. Option C is incorrect because the copy constructor allows for copying of objects, it does not prevent it. Option D is incorrect because overloading the assignment operator is a different concept and not a key feature of the copy constructor.