What is the event loop in Node.js and how does it work?

What is the event loop in Node.js and how does it work?

The event loop is a core concept in Node.js that allows it to perform non-blocking I/O operations. It enables Node.js to handle multiple operations concurrently without waiting for each one to complete before moving on.

Can you explain how the event loop handles asynchronous operations?

Sure! The event loop continuously checks the call stack and the message queue. When the call stack is empty, it takes the first message from the queue and executes its associated callback function.

What are some common use cases for the event loop?

Common use cases include handling HTTP requests, reading files, and interacting with databases, all of which can be done asynchronously.

How does the event loop differ from traditional threading models?

Unlike traditional threading models that use multiple threads to handle tasks, the event loop uses a single-threaded model, which simplifies concurrency and avoids issues like race conditions.