What are Java 8 Streams and how do I use mapping?

What are Java 8 Streams and how do I use mapping?

Java 8 Streams are a new abstraction that allows you to process sequences of elements (like collections) in a functional style. The mapping function is used to transform each element in the stream.

Can you give me an example of using mapping with Streams?

Sure! For instance, if you have a list of integers and you want to square each number, you can use the map function like this: List<Integer> squares = numbers.stream().map(n -> n * n).collect(Collectors.toList());.

What other operations can I perform with Streams?

You can perform various operations like filtering, reducing, and sorting. Each of these operations can be chained together for powerful data processing.

Are there any performance considerations when using Streams?

Yes, while Streams can make your code more readable, they may introduce overhead. It's important to consider the size of the data and the complexity of operations.