How do I copy objects in Java?

How do I copy objects in Java?

In Java, you can copy objects using the clone method, copy constructors, or serialization. Which method are you interested in?

Can you explain the clone method?

Sure! The clone method is defined in the Object class. To use it, your class must implement the Cloneable interface. Would you like a code example?

Yes, please provide a code example.

Here's a simple example:

class MyClass implements Cloneable {
    int value;

    MyClass(int value) {
        this.value = value;
    }

    @Override
    protected Object clone() throws CloneNotSupportedException {
        return super.clone();
    }
}

public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) throws CloneNotSupportedException {
        MyClass original = new MyClass(10);
        MyClass copy = (MyClass) original.clone();
        System.out.println(copy.value); // Outputs 10
    }
}

What are the limitations of using the clone method?

The clone method has some limitations, such as shallow copying of mutable objects and the need for the class to implement Cloneable. It's also not type-safe.