Overloading in C++: overloaded functions are required to meet which condition?

Introduction / Context:Function overloading lets multiple functions share the same name while differing in parameter types or counts. Many myths surround what must match among overloads. This question targets those misconceptions by asking what overloaded functions are actually required to have in common.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We consider free functions or member functions with the same name in the same scope.
• Overloads must be distinguished by their parameter lists (types/order/arity).
• Return type alone cannot distinguish overloads during a call.

Concept / Approach:

• There is no requirement that return types match.
• There is no requirement that the number of parameters match; arity may differ.
• Semantics (”perform the same basic function”) are conventional, not a language rule.
• The only strict requirement is that each overload's parameter list is different enough for overload resolution.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• same return type: False; two overloads may return different types (though not advisable for ambiguity).
• same number of parameters: False; overloading by arity is common.
• perform the same basic functions: Not a language requirement.
• All of the above: Incorrect for the reasons above.

Common Pitfalls:

• Trying to rely on return type alone to resolve calls; the compiler cannot choose an overload based only on return type.
• Creating ambiguous overload sets via excessive implicit conversions.

Final Answer: