Difference between Error and Exception in Java
When it comes to programming in Java, one of the most common topics that developers come across is errors and exceptions. Although both of them can interrupt the normal execution of a program, there are some key differences between them.
Error in Java
An error in Java is a situation that occurs at the system level or JVM level, and it is beyond the control of the programmer. Errors can cause the program to crash, and having any errors in a program is considered to be a serious issue. Examples of errors include OutOfMemoryError, StackOverflowError, and VirtualMachineError.
Exception in Java
On the other hand, an exception in Java is a problem that occurs during the execution of a program, and it can be handled by the programmer. Exceptions are caused by code that is not working as expected, and they can be caught and dealt with in a manner that allows the program to continue executing. Exceptions can occur due to a wide variety of reasons, such as bad user input, network issues, or incorrect coding practices.
Distinguishing between Errors and Exceptions
There are a few key differences between errors and exceptions that distinguish them from each other.
Firstly, an error in Java is not recoverable, which means that once an error occurs, the program’s execution is terminated. In contrast, an exception in Java is recoverable, and the program can continue executing after an exception has occurred.
Secondly, errors generally occur due to issues with the JVM or system resources, whereas exceptions are usually caused by problems with the code itself. This means that errors are inherently unpredictable, whereas exceptions can be anticipated and handled by the programmer.
Finally, errors in Java are comparatively rare, and they are more likely to occur in large, complex programs. Exceptions, on the other hand, are a common occurrence in almost any program.
In conclusion, the main difference between errors and exceptions in Java is that errors are more serious, unpredictable, and unrecoverable, whereas exceptions are relatively common, predictable, and recoverable. By understanding the differences between these two concepts, Java programmers can take the appropriate measures to ensure that their programs are stable, efficient, and error-free.
Table difference between error and exception in java
| Error | Exception |
|---|---|
| Represents a serious issue that a program should not attempt to handle intelligently | Represents an exceptional condition that can be handled by a program |
| Unchecked type of problem | Checked type of problem |
| Occurs at runtime | Can occur at compile time or runtime |
| Examples include OutOfMemoryError and StackOverflowError | Examples include IOException and NullPointerException |