Introduction to Java Programming and Data Structures

Flashcards covering key terminology and concepts from the lecture on Java programming, focusing on objects and classes.

Class

A blueprint or template from which objects are created.

Object

An instance of a class that represents a distinct entity with a unique identity, state, and behaviors.

Encapsulation

The bundling of variables and methods into a single unit, restricting access to certain components.

Abstraction

The concept of hiding the complex implementation details and showing only the essential features of an object.

Constructor

A special type of method used to initialize objects of a class.

Instance Variable

A variable defined in a class for which each object of the class has its own copy.

Static Variable

A variable that is shared among all instances of a class.

Reference Variable

A variable that holds the address of an object in memory.

Garbage Collection

The process by which the Java Virtual Machine automatically manages memory and reclaims objects that are no longer in use.

Method

A function defined within a class that can be used to perform operations on objects.

Visibility Modifier

Keywords that set the accessibility of classes, methods, and variables (e.g., public, private, protected).

Getter

A method used to retrieve the value of a data field in a class.

Setter

A method used to set or update the value of a data field in a class.

this Keyword

A reference variable that refers to the current object in a method or constructor.

Default Constructor

A constructor that takes no parameters and initializes the object with default values.

Inheritance

A principle that allows a new class to inherit the properties and methods of an existing class.

Polymorphism

The ability of different classes to be treated as instances of the same class through a common interface.