What are the different scopes of variables?

Here is an explanation of the different scopes of variables in PHP:

Variable Scopes in PHP

In PHP, variables can have different scopes depending on where they are defined and used. The main variable scopes are:

1. Local Scope
2. Global Scope
3. Static Scope
4. Parameter Scope

Let's discuss each scope in detail:

1. Local Scope

• Variables declared within a function have a local scope and can only be accessed within that function.
• Local variables are created when the function is called and destroyed when the function completes execution.
• You cannot access a local variable from outside the function.

Example:

function myFunction() {
    $x = 5; // $x has local scope
    echo "Value of x inside the function: $x";
}

myFunction(); // Calls the function
echo "Value of x outside the function: $x"; // Error: $x is not defined

2. Global Scope

• Variables declared outside of all functions and classes have a global scope.
• Global variables can be accessed throughout the entire script, including inside functions.
• To access a global variable inside a function, you need to use the global keyword or the $GLOBALS superglobal array.

Example:

$x = 5; // $x has global scope

function myFunction() {
    global $x;
    echo ...