When Does Java's finalize() Method Get Invoked?

When is the finalize() Method in Java Invoked?

The finalize() method serves a specific purpose in the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) lifecycle, and its timing is crucial to understand. Despite implementing it to record its invocation, you have not witnessed any output, raising questions about when this method is called.

Answer:

The finalize() method is invoked when an object is deemed garbage by the JVM. This occurs after the object becomes eligible for garbage collection, a process that can happen at any time.

It's important to note that an object may never be garbage collected, either because it remains accessible or because the JVM has not performed garbage collection during the program's execution. Test programs often exhibit this behavior.

Although there are mechanisms to force the JVM to invoke finalize() on uncollected objects, it is not recommended due to unreliable guarantees.

In application design, relying on finalize() for essential operations is a flaw. Its primary purpose is to provide a clean-up mechanism for non-Java resources, reflecting the uncertainty of its invocation by the JVM.

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