What are the differences in inheritance between Java and C++?

What are the differences in inheritance between Java and C++?

Java and C++ handle inheritance differently. In Java, inheritance is single, meaning a class can only extend one superclass, while C++ supports multiple inheritance, allowing a class to inherit from multiple classes.

Can you explain why Java doesn't support multiple inheritance?

Java avoids multiple inheritance to prevent complexity and ambiguity, such as the 'Diamond Problem', where a class inherits from two classes that have a method with the same name.

What about interfaces in Java?

Java uses interfaces to achieve a form of multiple inheritance. A class can implement multiple interfaces, allowing it to inherit method signatures without the complexities of multiple class inheritance.

Are there any performance differences between the two?

Yes, C++ can be more efficient due to direct memory access and less overhead, while Java's inheritance model may introduce some performance costs due to its virtual method table.