Abstract classes cannot be instantiated and are designed to be subclassed. They are used to provide some common functionality across a set of related classes while also allowing default method implementations.

What is the purpose of abstract class in Java?

A Java abstract class is a class which cannot be instantiated, meaning you cannot create new instances of an abstract class. The purpose of an abstract class is to function as a base for subclasses.

Why are abstract classes used?

The short answer: An abstract class allows you to create functionality that subclasses can implement or override. An interface only allows you to define functionality, not implement it. And whereas a class can extend only one abstract class, it can take advantage of multiple interfaces.