23.4. Synchronization in Java

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the synchronized keyword do in Java?

   Hint

   Think about how it helps with multiple threads using the same resource.

2. 2.

   What is an intrinsic lock?

   Hint

   Consider how each object is treated in a concurrent environment.

3. 3.

   What is the effect of the synchronized keyword in Java?

   • Allows multiple threads to execute simultaneously
   • Allows only one thread at a time in a synchronized block
   • No effect on thread operations

   Hint

   Think about thread safety when multiple threads are calling the same method.

4. 4.

   True or False: Every object in Java has an intrinsic lock.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall how synchronization is implemented in Java.

5. 5.

   Create a Java program that simulates a scenario where multiple threads attempt to modify a shared counter variable without synchronization. Show the results and explain the resultant behavior.

   Hint

   Focus on how threads access the same variable simultaneously.

6. 6.

   Discuss how the use of synchronized can lead to performance bottlenecks in large-scale applications. Provide a hypothetical scenario where this might occur.

   Hint

   Consider high-traffic situations and the load involved.