What does it mean when a program behaves differently based on static values?

When a program behaves differently based on static values, it refers to the practice of hard coding. Hard coding means that specific values are directly written into the code, which can lead to unchanged behavior unless the actual code itself is modified. This contrasts with using dynamic inputs or variable data, where the program can adapt based on user input or changing data conditions.

In scenarios involving hard coding, the outcome of the program is predetermined and not flexible, as it relies on those fixed, static values. For instance, if a program uses a hard-coded constant for tax calculations, it will always use that specific value without any possibility for modification unless the code is explicitly edited.

Other concepts, such as user interaction, refer to the way users can manipulate or provide input to a program. Dynamic behavior suggests that the program can change its responses based on runtime conditions or inputs. Variable inputs highlight the use of different, changeable data as opposed to fixed, static values used in hard coding.