📚 Topic Summary
Polymorphism, derived from Greek roots meaning "many forms," is a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming (OOP). In Java, polymorphism allows objects of different classes to be treated as objects of a common type. This is achieved through method overriding (runtime polymorphism) and method overloading (compile-time polymorphism). Polymorphism enhances code flexibility, reusability, and maintainability by enabling you to write generic code that can operate on objects of various types.
Essentially, polymorphism means that a single action can perform differently based on the actual object that is performing it. It is like having a remote control that can operate different devices. The 'action' (pressing a button) has different outcomes depending on whether it is used on a TV, a DVD player, or a stereo.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its correct definition:
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| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Polymorphism |
A. Methods with the same name but different parameters within the same class. |
| 2. Method Overriding |
B. The ability of an object to take on many forms. |
| 3. Method Overloading |
C. A mechanism where a subclass provides a specific implementation of a method that is already defined in its superclass. |
| 4. Superclass |
D. The class whose properties are inherited by another class. |
| 5. Subclass |
E. The class that inherits properties from another class. |
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Click to reveal answers
- 1. Polymorphism - B
- 2. Method Overriding - C
- 3. Method Overloading - A
- 4. Superclass - D
- 5. Subclass - E
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided below:
[Inheritance, runtime, objects, compile-time, classes]
__________ is a key feature of object-oriented programming that allows __________ of different __________ to be treated as __________ of a common type. Method overriding demonstrates __________ polymorphism, while method overloading demonstrates __________ polymorphism.
Click to reveal answers
Polymorphism is a key feature of object-oriented programming that allows objects of different classes to be treated as objects of a common type. Method overriding demonstrates runtime polymorphism, while method overloading demonstrates compile-time polymorphism.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how polymorphism can improve the maintainability and scalability of a large Java application. Provide a real-world example to illustrate your point.