Question

A class that cannot be instantiated is a(n) _________.

Short answer

Answer: An Abstract Class.

Step-by-step solution

1. Introducing the concept of classes

In object-oriented programming, a class is a blueprint for creating objects. Each object is an instance of a class. Classes contain properties and methods that define the characteristics and behaviors of objects created from that class. Some classes can be instantiated, which means an object can be created from them, while another type of class cannot be instantiated.

2. Understanding the concept of instantiation

Instantiation is the process of creating an object from a class. An object is an instance of a class, and it holds the properties and methods defined in the class. If a class can be instantiated, it means that objects can be created from that class, and those objects can be used to access the properties and methods of the class.

3. Identifying the class that cannot be instantiated

The correct term for a class that cannot be instantiated is an "Abstract Class." An abstract class is a class that cannot create objects, and it is designed to be inherited by other classes. The main purpose of an abstract class is to define a common interface that other subclasses should implement, allowing a more structured design and eliminating redundancy in code.

4. Conclusion

A class that cannot be instantiated is an Abstract Class. It is a type of class in object-oriented programming specifically designed to be inherited by other subclasses and to provide a common interface, rather than to create objects directly.

Key concepts

Object-Oriented Programming Explained

Object-oriented programming (OOP) stands as a pillar of modern software development. It revolves around the idea of bundling data and the operations that modify or interact with this data into units called classes. A class, akin to a blueprint, encapsulates both the structure (attributes) and behaviors (methods) that objects of this class will hold and exhibit.

Imagine OOP as a way to model real-world entities within the virtual realm of programming. Cars, animals, and even users can be represented as objects, each derived from a corresponding class. The strength of OOP lies in its ability to mirror complex systems in an intuitive way, harnessing concepts like encapsulation, which isolates an object's internal workings from the outside world, or polymorphism, allowing an object to take on many forms through inheritance.

Instantiation in Programming Unpacked

Instantiation is a term that marks the birth of an object in programming. It is analogous to crafting a unique item based on a schematic; the class provides the schematic, while instantiation brings the object into existence. Through instantiation, each object can maintain its own state, holding unique values for its properties while sharing the structure and behaviors established by its class.

Understanding how instantiation works is key to wielding the power of OOP effectively. When a class is instantiated, it's as if the abstract idea it represents has been materialized into a concrete entity. Programmers can then interact with this entity, manipulating its data and invoking its methods to perform operations. Despite their shared DNA, each object operates independently, a testament to the versatility of OOP in various applications.

Inheritance in Programming Demystified

In the familial world of object-oriented programming, inheritance allows classes to pass on their genes, creating a taxonomy of types. When a class inherits from another, it absorbs its parent's properties and methods, becoming an enriched version of the original. This mechanism promotes code reusability and a well-organized hierarchy of classes.

Imagine a basic class called 'Animal' with attributes like age and methods such as 'move'. A subclass, 'Bird', would inherit these traits while adding unique aspects, like the ability to fly. In essence, inheritance weaves a tapestry of related classes, fostering a clear structure by piling on specificities atop a generic base. This not only avoids redundancy but also simplifies the modification and extension of code over time.