Java Classes and Objects Flashcards

Study Notes

Classes and Objects

Class: Serves as a blueprint for creating Java objects, defining properties (attributes) and behaviors (methods).
Object: Represents a specific instance of a class that encapsulates data and methods.
Instantiate: Refers to the process of creating a new object from a class using the new keyword.

Memory Management

Garbage Collection: Automated process by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) that reclaims memory by removing objects that are no longer in use or referenced.

Methods in Java

Method: Defined function belonging to a class that can modify object state or return information. Methods fall into two main categories:
- Mutator Method (Setter): Alters the state or attributes of an object.
- Accessor Method (Getter): Retrieves information or attributes from an object without modifying its state.

Object Lifecycle

Constructor: A unique method automatically called when an object is created, used for setting initial values for object's attributes.
Finalizers: An optional method invoked before an object is garbage collected, allowing for cleanup actions.
null: Represents a reference not pointing to any instantiated object, indicating that the object is absent.

Additional Concepts

this Reference: A keyword that allows access to the current object's members and methods, helping distinguish between instance variables and parameters.
Reference: The variable name used to interact with an object in memory, pointing to its location.

Variable Management

Initialization: The action of assigning a default or starting value to a variable when it is created.

Description

Test your knowledge on key concepts related to classes, objects, and methods in Java. These flashcards cover important terms like 'class', 'this reference', and 'garbage collection'. Perfect for anyone looking to understand object-oriented programming in Java.