Each()

Introduction

As a PHP developer, it is essential to understand the various array functions that PHP provides. One such function is the each() function, which is used to iterate over each element of an array and return the key-value pair.

In this article, we will discuss the each() function in detail, its syntax, parameters, and usage examples. We will also cover the differences between the each() function and other similar array functions and highlight the benefits of using each() in your PHP code.

Syntax

The syntax for the each() function is as follows:

each(array $array): array|false

The each() function takes an array as its parameter and returns an array or false on failure.

Parameters

The each() function takes only one parameter, which is an array. The array can be either indexed or associative. In case of an indexed array, the keys will be the integers starting from 0, and in the case of an associative array, the keys will be the keys that are assigned to each element.

Usage

The each() function is used to iterate over each element of an array and return the key-value pair. This function can be used with both indexed and associative arrays. The each() function returns an array containing the key, value, and the boolean values 1 and 0.

Here is an example of how to use the each() function:

<?php

$array = ["one" => 1, "two" => 2, "three" => 3];

while ($element = each($array)) {
    echo $element['key'] . ' => ' . $element['value'] . '<br>';
}

In the example above, we first define an associative array with three key-value pairs. Then, we use the each() function to iterate over each element of the array and return the key-value pair. Finally, we use a while loop to print out each key-value pair.

Differences between each() and other similar array functions

The each() function is similar to other array functions like foreach(), array_walk(), and array_map(). However, there are some differences between these functions:

• foreach() iterates over each element of an array and assigns the value to a variable. It does not return the key-value pair like the each() function.
• array_walk() and array_map() are used to iterate over an array and apply a user-defined function to each element. They do not return the key-value pair like the each() function.

Benefits of using each() in your PHP code

The each() function is a useful function for iterating over each element of an array and returning the key-value pair. It is a simple function to use and can be used with both indexed and associative arrays. The each() function can also be used in combination with other array functions to perform more complex operations on an array.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the each() function is a useful function for PHP developers to iterate over each element of an array and return the key-value pair. It is easy to use, works with both indexed and associative arrays, and can be used in combination with other array functions to perform more complex operations on an array.