What is exactly an instance in Java?

Question

I'm approaching to Java, because I've some projects to do with it, but I didn't understand this thing. Can you explain me what it is like I'm 5?;-)

Answer 1

An instance is an istantiated object of a class.

For Example, i have the "Animal" class, with "Name, Animal_Type, Age".

Then, in the code, I write something like:

Animal one = new Animal(Tom, Cat, 25)
Animal two = new Animal(Jerry, Mouse, 25)
Animal three = new Animal(Mc.Scrooge, Duck, 69)

"Animal" Is the class.

One, two and three, are instances of the class "Animal"

Answer 2

it's a bit more abstract.

You have a class "Animal", but no object yet.

Then, when you CREATE an object of that class, you are instantiating it.

So, with the code:
Animal one = new Animal(Tom, cat, 25)

You are INSTANTIATING (Creating an object of a certain class) and ASSIGNING it to the variable one.

Maybe here they explain the concept in a better way. My english is not the best. :D

https://stackoverflow.com/questions/1215881/the-difference-between-classes-objects-and-instances

Answer 3

you explained that very well thanks

Answer 4

is {animal one = new Animal(Tom,Cat,25)} the
entire instance?

or just {new Animal(Tom,Cat,25)?

thanka