Glossary
Architecture-Neutral
A key feature of Java, often summarized as 'Code once, run anywhere,' due to its ability to run on different operating systems.
Example:
A Java program written on a Windows computer can run on a Mac or Linux machine without modification because it is architecture-neutral.
Binary
The fundamental language of computers, consisting of only two digits: 0s and 1s.
Example:
Every character you type, like 'A', is internally represented by the computer as a sequence of binary digits.
BlueJ
An Integrated Development Environment (IDE) specifically designed for teaching object-oriented programming in Java.
Example:
Many introductory computer science courses use BlueJ because of its simplified interface and visual representation of objects and classes.
Distributed
A characteristic of Java indicating its ability to easily connect and interact with the internet and various file systems.
Example:
A distributed Java application might involve components running on different servers that communicate over a network.
Dynamic
A characteristic of Java that allows for adding functionality and adapting to changes through the use of libraries.
Example:
You can easily extend a Java application's capabilities by importing external libraries, making it highly dynamic.
Eclipse
A popular open-source Integrated Development Environment (IDE) widely used for Java development.
Example:
Many professional Java developers rely on Eclipse for its extensive plugin ecosystem and robust features.
High-Performance
A characteristic of Java indicating that modern compilers and runtime optimizations allow for fast execution.
Example:
Despite its interpreted nature, Java can achieve high-performance for complex applications due to just-in-time compilation.
High-level languages
Programming languages that are designed to be easier for humans to understand and write, abstracting away complex machine details.
Example:
Java, Python, and C++ are examples of high-level languages that allow developers to write code closer to human language.
Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
A software application that provides comprehensive facilities for software development, including code editing, compiling, and debugging.
Example:
Using an Integrated Development Environment like IntelliJ makes coding more efficient by providing features like code completion and error highlighting.
IntelliJ
A powerful Integrated Development Environment (IDE) known for its intelligent code assistance and developer productivity tools.
Example:
Students often find IntelliJ user-friendly for learning Java due to its smart suggestions and refactoring capabilities.
Interpreted
A characteristic of Java where the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) translates bytecode into machine code at runtime for execution.
Example:
Unlike fully compiled languages, Java code is interpreted by the JVM, which processes instructions as the program runs.
Java
A widely popular, high-level, object-oriented programming language known for its simplicity and platform independence.
Example:
Many large-scale enterprise applications and Android mobile apps are developed using Java.
Java Virtual Machine (JVM)
A crucial component that enables Java's platform independence by interpreting bytecode, allowing Java code to run on any device.
Example:
The Java Virtual Machine acts as a translator, converting Java bytecode into machine-specific instructions at runtime.
Low-level languages
Programming languages that communicate directly with computer hardware but are difficult for humans to read and write.
Example:
Assembly language is a low-level language often used for tasks requiring direct hardware manipulation, like device drivers.
Machine code
The native language of a computer's processor, into which high-level languages must be converted for execution.
Example:
After your Java program is compiled, it's eventually translated into machine code that the CPU can directly understand and run.
Multithreaded
A characteristic of Java that supports parallel programming, allowing multiple parts of a program to run concurrently.
Example:
A web server written in Java might be multithreaded to handle multiple client requests simultaneously, improving responsiveness.
Object-Oriented
A programming paradigm that structures programs around 'objects' which contain data and methods, using concepts like classes and inheritance.
Example:
In a game, you might create an Object-Oriented 'Player' class with properties like health and methods like 'jump()' or 'attack()'.
Programming
The process of giving instructions to devices so they can respond to our actions.
Example:
When you write code for a robot to navigate a maze, you are engaging in programming its movements.
Secure
A characteristic of Java, meaning it is built with features designed to resist various types of attacks and protect data.
Example:
Java's sandbox environment contributes to its secure nature, preventing untrusted code from accessing system resources.
Visual Studio Code
A lightweight yet powerful source code editor that supports Java development through extensions.
Example:
While primarily a code editor, Visual Studio Code can be configured with extensions to provide a full Java development experience.
repl.it
An online Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that allows users to write, compile, and run code directly in a web browser.
Example:
For quick coding exercises or collaborating on projects, repl.it provides a convenient cloud-based coding environment.