What are the differences between using single quotes and double quotes to define strings in PHP?

In PHP, using single quotes and double quotes to define strings have slight differences. Double quotes allow for the interpretation of escape sequences and variables within the string, while single quotes treat everything literally. When using double quotes, PHP will parse variables and special characters within the string, which can be useful for dynamic content. On the other hand, single quotes are faster and more efficient for static strings that do not require variable interpolation.

// Using double quotes for variable interpolation
$name = "John";
echo "Hello, $name!"; // Output: Hello, John!

// Using single quotes for static strings
echo 'Hello, $name!'; // Output: Hello, $name!