What is super () used for in Java?

The world is being increasingly digitalized daily. We rely extensively on software and apps in our daily lives, from communicating with friends on social media to transferring money online.

Our days begin and conclude with some kind of application. Because of our dependency on the digital world, there is a growing need for more software that simplifies our lives.

This need has created a void in the programming industry, allowing for new prospects and exponential growth. The backbone of the programming world is programming languages.

Java is among the most popular and widely utilized among the different programming languages worldwide. It is well-known for its adaptability and platform independence.

If you are new to the world of Java programming, there are certain concepts that you must be familiar with to increase your skills. The concept of super() is one of them.

This blog will delve into the definition and uses of super() in Java. We will learn the super keyword in Java and define and see the uses for Java online compiler.

So, let us delve into the world of Java programming and learn all about super().

What is super() in Java?

Super() in Java is used to explicitly call a constructor in the superclass from a constructor in the subclass. It is an important concept in inheritance. This ensures that the initialization code in the parent class's constructor is executed before the child class's constructor code.

When you create an object of a subclass in Java, it automatically calls the superclass's constructor. This is the default in Java. However, if the constructor in the superclass needs specific information (like arguments) or if you want to use a particular constructor in the superclass, you can use super() to do this explicitly

If you use super() in the subclass, it must be the first thing in the constructor. This ensures the parent's setup comes before anything else in the subclass.

However, if you don't use super() explicitly, Java automatically calls the superclass's default no-argument constructor.

Super () is like ensuring your parent finishes their tasks before you begin your own. It keeps everything in order in the program.

Features of super() in Java

The super() in Java is a powerful tool important in communication between subclasses and superclasses. Here are some important features of super() in Java

Constructor Calling: Super() calls a parent class constructor from a child class to set up the parent's part before the child's.
Chaining: It strings together constructors in an inheritance chain, ensuring a well-defined setup order.
Initialization: Super() correctly initializes objects by running the parent's constructor code.
Passing Data: It sends data to the parent's constructor, which is helpful for specific information.
Default Handling: Without super(), Java defaults to the parent's no-argument constructor.
Order Importance: Super() must be the first in a child class's constructor.
Access to Methods and Feilds: Super() lets you access parent class methods and fields.
Control Choice: You can choose which parent constructor to call when options exist.
Conflict Resolution: Super () specifies which parent class constructor to use for multiple inheritance, avoiding ambiguity.
Customization: Super() allows child classes to customize the setup, ensuring parent class work is completed accurately.

Uses of Super() in Java

Here are some of the uses of super() in Java:

Chaining of constructors: Super() calls a constructor in the parent class from the child class's constructor. This ensures the parent class's setup is done before the child class's setup.
Passing Data: You can pass data to the parent class's constructor using super(). This is handy when the parent class needs specific information to work properly.
Accessing Parent class members: Super () allows you to access methods and fields in the parent class, even if they are overridden in the child class.
Resolving Conflicts: If a class inherits from several parent classes with the same method or field names, super() can select which parent class's method or field to utilize. This is paramount for resolving conflicts.
Custom Initialization: Super() allows you to customize how an object is set up by doing additional work after calling the parent class's constructor. This makes sure that everything is prepared just right.

Now that we know the uses and features of super() in Java, let us move on to our next topic i.e. the super keyword in Java.

What is the super keyword in Java?

The super keyword in Java is different from super() in Java. They may seem relatable terms, but their functions are different. The super keyword in Java is a reference that allows a subclass to access members of its immediate parent class (superclass).

The super keyword in Java prevents name conflicts. It invokes superclass constructors, accesses overridden methods, and operates with inherited members. It ensures proper inheritance and maintains hierarchical class relationships.

Let us move on to the next part of this blog i.e. Java online compilers.

Java online compiler

Java online compilers have emerged as exceptional web-based tools. They offer a seamless web-based platform for writing code directly in the compiler. Java online compilers allow for writing, editing, and debugging the Java code. Java online compilers are also used to run these programs to see how they function.

Java online compilers are especially useful when learning Java on the go. Their ability to run Java code without software installation or system configuration on your computer is a blessing.

Using these Java online compilers simplifies the learning curve. Just type your code, modify it as needed, identify bugs, and observe how it functions.

Here are some of the more popular Java online compilers

Coding Ninjas
JDoodle
OnlineGDB
Codiva
Replit

Conclusion

The super() in Java and the super keyword in Java are different concepts with different uses. The super() is specifically used to call a constructor in the superclass from a constructor in the subclass. On the other hand, the super keyword in Java refers to members of the immediate superclass from within a subclass.

Additionally, the use of Java online compilers is very convenient for beginners. These compilers allow them to learn Java without the need to install any application on their computer.