Here are a few title options that fit the criteria: Focusing on the core question: * Will String Literals Ever Be Garbage Collected in Java? * How Does Garbage Collection Work with String Literals i

Garbage Collection and String Literals

Garbage collection is a fundamental part of Java's memory management. However, understanding the nuances of string literal garbage collection can be perplexing. This article aims to clarify common questions on this topic.

1. Garbage Collection of Strings Defined as Literals

When a string is defined as a literal at compile time, such as String str = "java", it generally will not be garbage collected. The references to such strings persist in the code objects, ensuring their reachability.

2. Garbage Collection of Strings Using the intern Method

The intern method stores a string in the pool of interned strings if it doesn't already exist, returning a reference to the existing or newly interned string. In the case of string literals, the "java" literal is interned at class loading time. Thus, when using intern on a new string object containing the same value, the interned "java" string is returned. However, non-literal interned strings can be garbage collected once they become unreachable, unlike literals.

3. Garbage Collection of Litcrals and Unloading of String Class

The notion that string literals will only be garbage collected when the String class is unloaded is incorrect. The String class, being deeply ingrained in Java's core, is unlikely to be unloaded. Therefore, string literals persist as long as the referencing code objects are reachable.

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