How can the use of password_hash() function improve security in PHP applications?

Using the password_hash() function in PHP applications improves security by securely hashing passwords before storing them in the database. This function uses a strong hashing algorithm and automatically generates a random salt for each password, making it difficult for attackers to crack passwords using common methods like rainbow tables.

// Hashing a password before storing it in the database
$password = "secret_password";
$hashed_password = password_hash($password, PASSWORD_DEFAULT);

// Storing the hashed password in the database
// $hashed_password should be stored in the database instead of the plain text password