Java Object Lifecycle

Creation:

• When you use the new keyword, an object is created in the heap memory.
• The constructor of the class is called to initialize the object’s state.

Reassigning References:

• You can reassign a variable to refer to a different object.
• The original object becomes eligible for garbage collection if there are no other references to it.

MyClass obj1 = new MyClass();
MyClass obj2 = new MyClass();

obj1 = obj2; // Now obj1 and obj2 refer to the same object

Garbage Collection:

• Java has automatic garbage collection.
• The garbage collector reclaims the memory occupied by objects that are no longer reachable.
• An object becomes unreachable when there are no more references pointing to it.

3. Lifecycle Explanation

• Object creation: When you create an object using the new keyword, the JVM allocates memory space in the heap for the object and initializes its instance variables. The constructor of the class is then invoked to perform any necessary initialization.
• Reference assignment: A reference variable holds the memory address of an object. You can assign this reference to another variable, allowing both variables to access the same object.
• Reference reassignment: When you reassign a reference variable to a different object, the original object may become eligible for garbage collection if no other references exist.
• Garbage collection: The JVM periodically runs a garbage collector to identify and reclaim memory occupied by unreachable objects. This process helps prevent memory leaks and ensures efficient memory utilization.

Key points to remember:

• Objects are created in heap memory.
• Reference variables hold the memory address of objects.
• Garbage collection is automatic in Java.
• Unreachable objects are eligible for garbage collection.