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Today, we’re going to explore how JavaScript, via Nashorn, can call Java methods. This is a powerful feature! Anyone knows why we might want to combine these two languages?
Maybe to use Java's libraries in JavaScript code?
Exactly, it lets us leverage Java's libraries! Now, let’s dive into an example using the `Java.type()` method. This allows us to utilize Java classes.
How does that actually work?
Great question! For instance, we could create a `File` object in JavaScript. Let's see this code: `var File = Java.type('java.io.File'); var file = new File('test.txt');`
And we can just use the file as if we were in Java?
Exactly! You can access its methods directly from JavaScript. This integration offers remarkable flexibility in application development.
So what’s the output of that code?
If you call `print(file.getAbsolutePath());`, it will display the absolute path of the created file.
In summary, Nashorn is a powerful bridge, allowing powerful integration between Java and JavaScript through simple method calls.
Continuing from where we left off, look at the example: `var file = new File('test.txt');`. Why might this be useful in a real-world application?
We could allow users to manage files through a web application!
Exactly! By embedding JavaScript in our Java applications, we can offer user-friendly file management features. What do you think could be a disadvantage of using this approach?
Maybe performance issues due to interpreted code?
Correct! While dynamic scripting adds flexibility, it can have performance trade-offs compared to strictly compiled Java code. Always consider the context!
So, is it only Nashorn we have to worry about with JavaScript?
You're on point! Other engines, like GraalVM, are emerging as alternatives since Nashorn has been deprecated. Keep an eye on these advancements!
Today's lesson showed us how JavaScript can enhance Java’s capabilities, highlighting the integration potential in developing dynamic applications.
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The section provides an overview of integrating Java with JavaScript through Nashorn. It explains how to access Java classes and methods directly from JavaScript when working within a Java application, showcasing practical usage through code snippets.
In this section, we explore how to invoke Java methods and classes directly from JavaScript using the Nashorn JavaScript engine. This capability allows developers to create dynamic applications where JavaScript can interact with Java seamlessly, leveraging Java's robust functionalities while enjoying the flexibility of scripting.
Java.type()
method allows you to create Java objects directly within a JavaScript context. For instance, a simple script can create a File
object from the java.io
package:getAbsolutePath()
method on the File
instance, demonstrating interaction between Java and JavaScript.The discussions here highlight the significance of Nashorn in bridging these two different programming paradigms, making applications more dynamic and adaptable.
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Nashorn supports calling Java methods/classes from scripts:
This chunk introduces the core functionality that the Nashorn JavaScript engine provides, allowing scripts written in JavaScript to call Java methods and classes. This capability bridges the two languages, enabling developers to leverage Java's robust features within JavaScript code. The chunk sets the stage for the examples that follow and emphasizes the integration between Java and JavaScript.
Imagine you have a toolbox filled with various tools (Java), and you want to use some of these tools while baking a cake (JavaScript). Nashorn acts like a helpful assistant that brings the required tools to your kitchen whenever you need them while you're baking.
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engine.eval("var File = Java.type('java.io.File');" + "var file = new File('test.txt');" + "print(file.getAbsolutePath());");
This chunk presents a code snippet that demonstrates how to call a Java class from a JavaScript script using the Nashorn engine. The snippet initializes a new File object from the Java java.io.File
class, providing a path for a file named 'test.txt'. It then prints the absolute path of this file. This example illustrates how JavaScript can interact with Java classes, making it possible to manipulate file systems and resources through JavaScript code.
Think of having a remote control car (JavaScript) that can access a garage full of vehicles (Java). When you want to move a specific car (like the File class), you just press a button on the remote (using Java.type
), and the car is ready for you to drive it wherever you want.
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Key Concepts
Nashorn: A JavaScript engine that facilitates interaction between Java and JavaScript.
Java.type(): Method in Nashorn for creating Java objects in JavaScript.
ScriptEngine: The interface that provides a scripting context.
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Using Nashorn to create a File object: var File = Java.type('java.io.File'); var file = new File('test.txt');
Printing the absolute path of a file created in JavaScript: print(file.getAbsolutePath());
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Nashorn's the bridge, it allows you to code, mixing Java with scripts, watch logic explode!
Imagine a bridge where Java and JavaScript meet. They exchange secrets and code, crafting apps unique and neat.
JAS - Java And Scripts: Remember Nashorn links them across.
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Review the Definitions for terms.
Term: Nashorn
Definition:
A JavaScript engine included in Java 8 that allows Java code to invoke JavaScript and vice versa.
Term: Java.type()
Definition:
A Nashorn function that allows JavaScript to instantiate Java classes.
Term: ScriptEngine
Definition:
An interface that Nashorn implements which provides a way to execute scripts within Java applications.