How does the use of static variables and functions impact performance in PHP, and what are the best practices for optimizing code?

Using static variables and functions in PHP can impact performance by increasing memory usage and potentially causing conflicts in concurrent requests. To optimize code, it is best to avoid using static variables and functions unless absolutely necessary. Instead, consider using object-oriented programming principles like dependency injection to achieve the same functionality in a more efficient and scalable way.

class MyClass {
    private $dependency;

    public function __construct(Dependency $dependency) {
        $this->dependency = $dependency;
    }

    public function doSomething() {
        // Use $this->dependency here
    }
}

$dependency = new Dependency();
$myClass = new MyClass($dependency);
$myClass->doSomething();