What distinguishes local variables from global variables?

Local variables are distinguished from global variables primarily by their scope and accessibility within a program. Specifically, local variables are confined to the function or block in which they are defined. This means that they can only be accessed and used within that specific scope, ensuring that there's no interference or unexpected behavior from other parts of the program. When a function runs, it can create local variables that serve specific purposes. These variables are created anew each time the function is executed and they are destroyed once the function execution is complete.

On the other hand, global variables, which are defined outside of any function, can be accessed from anywhere in the program. This allows for more straightforward use across various functions but can lead to issues with unintended modifications and scope-related bugs if not managed carefully. Understanding the distinction between these types of variables is crucial for effective programming, as it impacts variable lifespan, accessibility, and naming conventions in a codebase.