::
from chat gpt:
The dot . operator is used to access the members of an object instance, which includes both non-static and static members. When you use the dot . operator, the left-hand side of the operator must be an instance of a class.
On the other hand, the scope resolution operator :: is used to access the members of a class or namespace, which can be static or non-static. When you use the :: operator, the left-hand side of the operator must be the name of a class or namespace.
If the member you are accessing is a static member, then you must use the scope resolution operator ::. If the member is a non-static member, then you must use the dot . operator with an instance of the class.