Introduction to Inheritance in Java for presentation
1. Introduction to
Inheritance in Java
Inheritance is a key concept in object-oriented programming (OOP) that
allows a class to inherit properties and behavior from another class. In Java,
inheritance enables the creation of new classes (child classes) that are built
upon existing classes (parent classes). This facilitates code reusability,
promotes a hierarchical structure, and supports polymorphism, which is
essential for building robust and scalable software solutions.
by Bhanu Prakash
BP
2. Single Inheritance
Definition
Single inheritance in Java refers to the process
where a class inherits properties and behaviors
from a single parent class. This allows the derived
class to reuse the code structure and functionality
of the parent class, enhancing code reusability and
promoting a more organized and efficient
codebase.
Example
An example of single inheritance in Java is the
creation of a class named "Car" that inherits
properties from a class named "Vehicle." The "Car"
class can then add its specific attributes and
behaviors, such as "numberOfWheels" or
"fuelType," while still benefiting from the properties
inherited from "Vehicle."
3. Multiple Inheritance
Complexity
Unlike single inheritance, multiple inheritance in
Java allows a class to inherit properties and
behaviors from more than one parent class. While
this may seem powerful, it introduces complexities
related to ambiguity in method and variable
inheritance, posing challenges in code
maintenance and understanding.
Resolution
Java does not support multiple inheritance of
classes, but it allows the use of interfaces to
achieve a form of multiple inheritance. By
implementing multiple interfaces, a class can
inherit the abstract methods defined within those
interfaces without encountering the issues
associated with traditional multiple class
inheritance.
4. Multilevel Inheritance
1 Definition
Multilevel inheritance in Java involves a hierarchy of classes where a derived class
serves as the base class for another class. This creates a chain of inheritance, enabling
the derived classes to inherit properties and behaviors not only from their immediate
parent class but also from the grandparent class and so on.
5. Hierarchical Inheritance
1 Structure
Hierarchical inheritance in Java represents a structure where multiple classes are derived from a
single parent class. Each derived class in the hierarchy inherits properties and behaviors from the
common parent, allowing for the creation of a unified codebase with shared functionalities.
7. Method Overriding in Inheritance
1 Definition
Method overriding refers to the ability of a subclass to provide a specific implementation
of a method that is already present in its parent class. This enables the derived class to
customize the behavior of inherited methods, allowing for flexibility and customization in
the codebase.
8. Super Keyword in Inheritance
1
Usage
Super keyword is used to access and call the parent
class constructor, methods, and members from the
child class. It provides a way to refer to the
immediate parent class, enabling the child class to
utilize the functionalities inherited from the parent.
2
Example
It is commonly used to initialize the attributes of the
parent class within the constructor of the child class,
ensuring the proper initialization of inherited
properties.
9. Abstract Classes and Inheritance
1 Abstraction
Abstract classes in Java provide a blueprint for other classes and can be
inherited. They can contain abstract methods that lack a body or concrete
implementation, allowing derived classes to provide specific implementations of
those methods.
2 Polymorphism
By combining abstraction and inheritance, abstract classes promote
polymorphism, allowing classes to be treated as instances of their parent class,
leading to flexibility and code reusability.
10. Final Keyword and Inheritance
1
Restriction
The final keyword in Java prevents the
inheritance of a class, making it impossible for
other classes to inherit from a final class. This
ensures that the final class's properties and
behavior remain unchanged and unextended.
2
Usage
By marking a class as final, developers can
enforce strict design patterns and restrict the
modification or extension of critical classes,
ensuring security, stability, and code integrity.