High School

Using more than one class after the extends keyword during inheritance is referred to as a Diamond Problem. But why do we represent this as a Diamond Problem?

1. There is no problem named the Diamond Problem that exists in Java.
2. Because extending two or more classes for a class provides strong association like a Diamond.
3. Because classes that are used after the extends keyword should have a single parent.
4. Because for every Java class, the Object class is the parent class by default.

Answer :

In computer science, the 'Diamond Problem' is a term used to describe a specific issue that arises in multiple inheritance situations in programming languages like C++. It is called the 'Diamond Problem' due to the diamond-shaped class inheritance structure that can occur when a class inherits from two classes that both have a common base class.

Here's a step-by-step explanation:

  1. Structure of the Diamond Problem:

    • Imagine a base class, A. Now imagine two classes, B and C, that both inherit from A.
    • Finally, imagine a class D that inherits from both B and C.
    • Visually, this forms a diamond shape with A at the top, B and C in the middle, and D at the bottom.

  2. The Problem:

    • When D tries to access something from the base class A, it's unclear whether it should inherit the properties from A through B or through C, as both B and C have A as their base class. This can lead to ambiguity and redundancy in the properties and methods D inherits.

  3. Why It Is Called a 'Diamond':

    • The name 'Diamond Problem' is derived from the shape of the class hierarchy. The structure forms a diamond when you draw the inheritance path, highlighting the issue of having multiple paths to a common base class.

  4. Java Context:

    • In Java, multiple inheritance of classes is not allowed in order to avoid problems like the Diamond Problem. Java uses interfaces to achieve multiple inheritance, as interfaces don't include any implementation, thereby avoiding ambiguity in method inheritance.

  5. Correct Option:

    • From the given options, the choice that aligns with the term 'Diamond Problem' conceptually would be Option 3: "Because classes that are used after the extends keyword should have a single parent." In the context of Java, inheritance from more than one class directly is not allowed, and the Diamond Problem does not exist with classes because of this design choice.

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