Understanding Polymorphism Types in Java

Polymorphism in Java is a core concept of object-oriented programming that allows objects to be treated as instances of their parent class rather than their actual class. This enables a single interface to be used for a general class of actions. Polymorphism in Java comes in two main types: compile-time and runtime.

Compile-Time Polymorphism: Also known as static polymorphism, this type is achieved through method overloading. Method overloading allows a class to have multiple methods with the same name but different parameters. The correct method is determined at compile time based on the method signatures.

Runtime Polymorphism: Also known as dynamic polymorphism, this type is achieved through method overriding. In method overriding, a subclass provides a specific implementation of a method already defined in its superclass. The method to be executed is determined at runtime, allowing for more dynamic and flexible code.