Description: Boxing in C# refers to the process of converting a value type into a reference type. In C#, value types are those that contain their data directly, such as primitive types (int, float, char, etc.), while reference types, like classes, contain a reference to the data in memory. Boxing allows value types to be treated as objects, which is essential in situations where a reference type is required, such as in collections that store objects. This process involves creating an object on the heap that contains the value of the value type, thus allowing it to be used in contexts that require a reference type. However, boxing can have a performance impact, as it involves additional memory allocation and data copying. Therefore, it is important for developers to understand when and how boxing occurs to optimize the performance of their applications.
Uses: Boxing is primarily used in situations where value types need to be stored in collections that only accept reference types, such as lists and dictionaries in C#. It is also useful in interoperability with APIs that require objects, allowing value types to be passed as parameters. Additionally, boxing is relevant in object-oriented programming, where value types need to behave like objects to take advantage of features like inheritance and polymorphism.
Examples: An example of boxing in C# is when an integer value is assigned to an object of type ‘object’. For instance: ‘object obj = 5;’ here, the integer value 5 is converted into an object. Another case is when using a generic list, such as ‘List
