Java - Multithreading

Multithreading

Java is a multithreaded programming language which means we can develop multi Threaded program using Java. A multi threaded program contains two or more parts that can run concurrently and each part can handle different task at the same time making optimal use of the available resources specially when your computer has multiple CPUs.

By definition multitasking is when multiple processes share common processing resources such as a CPU. Multi threading extends the idea of multitasking into applications where you can subdivide specific operations within a single application into individual threads. Each of the threads can run in parallel.

Multi threading enables you to write in a way where multiple activities can proceed concurrently in the same program.

Life Cycle of a Thread:

A thread goes through various stages in its life cycle. For example, a thread is created, started, runs, and then destroyed. The above diagram shows complete life cycle of a thread.

Above- mentioned stages are explained here:

New: A new thread begins its life cycle in the new state. It remains in this state until the program starts the thread. It is also referred to as a born thread.

Runnable: After a newly created thread is started, the thread becomes runnable. A thread in this state is considered to be executing its task.

Waiting: Sometimes, a thread transitions to the Waiting state while the thread waits for another thread to perforMa task. A thread transitions back to the runnable state only when another thread signals the Waiting thread to continue executing.

Timed Waiting: A runnable thread can enter the Timed Waiting state for a specified interval of time. A thread, in this state transitions back to the runnable state when that time interval expires or when the event it is Waiting for occurs.

Terminated: A runnable thread enters the terminated state when it completes its task or otherwise terminates.