How can the use of associative arrays improve the readability and stability of PHP code?

Using associative arrays can improve the readability and stability of PHP code by providing a way to organize related data in a structured manner. This can make the code more understandable and maintainable, as it allows for easy access to data using descriptive keys instead of relying on numerical indexes. Additionally, associative arrays can help prevent errors caused by misinterpreting or misusing data stored in different variables.

// Using associative arrays to store related data
$user = [
    'name' => 'John Doe',
    'age' => 30,
    'email' => 'john.doe@example.com'
];

// Accessing data using descriptive keys
echo $user['name']; // Output: John Doe
echo $user['age']; // Output: 30
echo $user['email']; // Output: john.doe@example.com