What is the Java Stream API and how does it work?

What is the Java Stream API and how does it work?

The Java Stream API is a powerful feature introduced in Java 8 that allows for functional-style operations on streams of elements. It enables you to process collections of objects in a more declarative way.

Can you give me an example of how to use it?

Sure! For example, you can use the Stream API to filter a list of integers to find all even numbers like this: List<Integer> evenNumbers = numbers.stream().filter(n -> n % 2 == 0).collect(Collectors.toList());.

What are some common operations I can perform with streams?

Common operations include filtering, mapping, sorting, and reducing. You can chain these operations to create complex data processing pipelines.

Are there any performance considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, while the Stream API can improve code readability, it may introduce overhead. It's important to consider the size of the data and the operations being performed.