What is the int type used for in Java?

The int type in Java is specifically designed to represent whole numbers, which are a subset of mathematical integers. It can hold both positive and negative values without any fractional component, making it suitable for situations where you require integer arithmetic. The int type can store values ranging from -2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647, which covers a significant range of integer values.

This type is commonly used in programs for counting, indexing, and performing mathematical operations that involve whole numbers. It is not suitable for boolean values, decimal numbers, or character values, as these require different data types such as boolean, float/double, and char/String, respectively. Understanding the purpose of the int type helps in effectively managing data types in Java programming.