Core Java concepts are fundamental principles that form the basis of Java programming. These concepts enable developers to build structured, modular, and maintainable Java applications.
1. **Classes and Objects**:
- **Class**: A class is a blueprint for creating objects. It defines the properties (attributes) and methods (behaviors) of objects.
- **Object**: An object is an instance of a class, representing real-world entities with specific data.
2. **Inheritance**:
- Inheritance allows one class (the child class) to inherit the properties and behaviors of another class (the parent class). It facilitates code reuse and makes the program more modular.
3. **Polymorphism**:
- Polymorphism enables one interface (method) to be used for different data types. It can be achieved through **method overriding** (runtime polymorphism) and **method overloading** (compile-time polymorphism).
4. **Abstraction**:
- Abstraction is the process of hiding the implementation details from the user and exposing only essential features. It can be implemented using **abstract classes** and **interfaces**.
5. **Encapsulation**:
- Encapsulation is the bundling of data and methods that operate on that data within a single unit (class). It restricts direct access to some of the object's components and ensures data integrity.