What is the difference between an abstract class and an interface?

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An abstract class and an interface are both used in object-oriented programming to define a blueprint for other classes, but they differ in purpose, structure, and usage.

1. Definition:

  • Abstract Class: A class that cannot be instantiated and may contain both abstract (unimplemented) and concrete (implemented) methods.

  • Interface: A collection of abstract methods only (in some languages, like Java) or method signatures meant to be implemented by other classes.

2. Purpose:

  • Abstract Class: Used when classes share common behavior or properties along with abstract definitions.

  • Interface: Used to define a contract that multiple unrelated classes can implement.

3. Inheritance:

  • Abstract Class: A class can inherit only one abstract class (single inheritance).

  • Interface: A class can implement multiple interfaces, supporting multiple inheritance of behavior.

4. Members:

  • Abstract Class:

    • Can have variables, constructors, and fully implemented methods.

    • Can maintain state.

  • Interface:

    • Typically contains method declarations only (no state or constructors).

    • All methods are public and abstract by default (in languages like Java).

5. Use Case:

  • Use an abstract class when several related classes share code.

  • Use an interface when you want to enforce a set of methods across unrelated classes.

In short: abstract classes provide shared code and structure, while interfaces define capabilities without implementation.

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