Reference Variable

Definition

A reference variable is a variable that stores the memory address where an object resides in the computer's memory. It can be used to access the object and invoke its methods.

Related terms

Null Reference: A reference variable that does not refer to any object, typically assigned the value "null."

Scope:

The region of code where a variable is valid and accessible.

Garbage Collection: An automatic process in which unreferenced objects are identified and their memory is reclaimed by the system.