What is exception handling in C++?

Exception handling in C++ refers to the structured way program execution can deal with problematic situations that occur during runtime, such as errors or exceptional circumstances. The core concept of exception handling involves using the keywords 'try,' 'catch,' and 'throw.'

In this context, the 'try' block contains code that may potentially throw an exception, while the 'catch' block is designed to handle any exceptions that arise from that code when an error occurs. When an exception is detected, control is transferred to the corresponding 'catch' block, allowing the program to respond appropriately without crashing.

This mechanism is crucial for developing robust applications because it allows programmers to anticipate and manage errors gracefully, thereby enhancing user experience and application reliability.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of exception handling. Creating custom exceptions is a related concept, but it does not define the entire framework of how exceptions are managed. Preventing memory leaks and optimizing code for speed are important aspects of programming but fall outside the scope of exception handling.