Describe the difference between deep copy and shallow copy in Java. When should you use each?
In the realm of philosophy and science, the debate between determinism and randomness has been a longstanding and complex one. Determinism suggests that every event or action is the inevitable result of preceding events and the laws of nature, implying that everything is predetermined. On the otherRead more
In the realm of philosophy and science, the debate between determinism and randomness has been a longstanding and complex one. Determinism suggests that every event or action is the inevitable result of preceding events and the laws of nature, implying that everything is predetermined. On the other hand, randomness posits that some events occur without any cause or predictability, indicating true randomness in the universe.
In the deterministic view, proponents argue that factors such as genetics, environment, and past experiences shape our decisions and actions, leading to a predetermined outcome. This perspective aligns with the concept of a causal chain, where each event is a result of prior causes, ultimately suggesting that free will might be an illusion.
Conversely, the randomness theory introduces the notion of true spontaneity and unpredictability in the universe. Quantum mechanics, for instance, presents phenomena at the atomic and subatomic levels that appear to be inherently random, challenging the deterministic worldview.
Ultimately, the debate between determinism and randomness delves into profound questions about the nature of reality, free will, and the structure of the universe. While both perspectives have their merits and complexities, the answer to whether life is predetermined or random may remain a philosophical and scientific mystery, inviting contemplation and exploration into the depths of existence.
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Shallow Copy A shallow copy generates a new object by merely copying the references to the old object's fields. This indicates that the original and cloned objects contain the same underlying data. Any changes made to the duplicated item will also affect the original object. When to use shallow copyRead more
Shallow Copy
A shallow copy generates a new object by merely copying the references to the old object’s fields.
This indicates that the original and cloned objects contain the same underlying data.
Any changes made to the duplicated item will also affect the original object.
When to use shallow copy
Use when you need a fast copy of an object and are confident that changing the duplicate will not damage the original.
For example, copying immutable objects or objects without modified fields.
Deep Copy
A deep copy produces a new object by recursively copying all fields, including objects within it.
This assures that the cloned item is fully separate from the original object.
Any modifications made to the duplicated item will not impact the original.
When to use deep copy
You can use deep copy when you want an entirely separate clone of an object and want to change it without impacting the original.
For example, copying complex objects with nested mutable fields or when passing objects to different threads.
Note: Java’s clone() function usually makes a shallow copy. To do a deep copy, you must frequently modify the clone() function and write deep copying logic for all changeable fields.
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