The Java Streams API was introduced in Java 8 as part of the java.util.stream package. It provides a functional programming approach to processing collections and is a powerful tool for handling data in a concise and readable way. Let’s break it down and explore with detailed examples, explaining every line of code.
What is a Stream?
A Stream is a sequence of elements from a source (like a collection) that supports aggregate operations. Streams differ from collections as they are:
- Lazy: Computation happens only when necessary.
- Immutable: Streams don’t modify the source.
- Functional: Operations are expressed declaratively.
Core Components of the Streams API
- Stream Creation
- Intermediate Operations: Transform the stream into another.
- Terminal Operations: Consume the stream to produce a result.
Step-by-Step Example
1. Stream Basics
Problem: Find and print the names of people who are 18 years or older.
import java.util.*;
import java.util.stream.*;
public class…
