Abstraction vs Encapsulation: The Differences Explained

Though closely related, Abstraction and Encapsulation serve distinct purposes in object-oriented architecture:

• Abstraction: Focuses on what an object does rather than how it does it. It hides complexity by exposing interfaces. For code examples, see Encapsulation & Abstraction in C++/Python. • Encapsulation: Focuses on hiding data details. It wraps data and code together inside a class and restricts direct access (using access modifiers like private or __private).

Analogy: A car dashboard abstracts away engine mechanics (press pedal to speed up). The physical hood encapsulating the engine protects cylinders from user-tampering.