Java garbage collection: What is it and how does it work?

Java garbage collection is an automatic memory management process that enhances the efficiency and stability of Java applications by reclaiming memory from objects that are no longer needed. This process operates within a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and involves different memory spaces such as the eden, survivor, and tenured spaces, which are part of the young and old generations in the heap. The garbage collector uses algorithms like mark-and-sweep to identify and eliminate unused objects, thereby preventing memory leaks and optimizing application performance. Although developers cannot directly control when garbage collection occurs, they can optimize its effectiveness by selecting appropriate garbage collectors, minimizing unnecessary object creation, and monitoring application performance using tools like New Relic. Java provides several garbage collection strategies, including serial, parallel, concurrent mark-and-sweep, and garbage-first (G1) collectors, each suited for different application needs. Despite its automatic nature, garbage collection requires careful tuning and monitoring to avoid common issues such as memory leaks and inefficient application performance.