What is an object variable, and how is it used in programming?

Answered on : 2024-01-24

Sources

Object Variables

docs.actian.com

Creating object variables (VBA)

learn.microsoft.com

"Object" vs "Object Variable" in Java?

stackoverflow.com

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An object variable is a memory location holding a reference or pointer to an object in programming. Its usage varies across languages:

1. **Declaration in VBA:** Object variables are declared with the `Object` data type when the specific object type isn't known until runtime. This flexibility aids dynamic programming in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA)[2].

2. **Java Distinction:** In Java, "Object" is the instance itself, while "Object Variable" is a reference to the Object. For instance, an Object Variable in Java holds a reference to an Object, not the object itself[3].

3. **Visual Basic Example:** In Visual Basic, object variables can refer to and store objects, offering versatility beyond storing simple values[5].

4. **JavaScript Objects:** JavaScript treats object properties similar to variables, showcasing the association between object variables and properties[6][9].

Object variables are fundamental for managing dynamic data structures and facilitating flexibility in various programming paradigms.

References:

- [2]: Creating object variables (VBA)

- [3]: "Object" vs "Object Variable" in Java?

- [5]: Object Variables - Visual Basic

- [6]: JavaScript Objects

- [9]: Working with objects - JavaScript - MDN Web Docs