Which Java Data Type Is Used to Store 64-Bit?

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Angela Bailey

In Java, when you need to store a 64-bit value, you have two main data types to choose from: long and double. Let’s take a closer look at each of them and understand their characteristics.

The long Data Type

The long data type is a 64-bit signed integer. It can store values ranging from -9,223,372,036,854,775,808 to 9,223,372,036,854,775,807 (inclusive).

When declaring a variable of type long, you need to append the letter ‘L’ or ‘l’ at the end of the value to indicate that it is a long literal. For example:


long myLong = 1234567890L;

You can perform various mathematical operations on long values just like with any other numeric data type in Java.

The double Data Type

The double data type is a 64-bit floating-point number. It can store decimal values with a higher precision compared to integers.

A double value can represent numbers ranging from approximately ±4.9 x 10-324 to ±1.8 x 10308. However, it is important to note that double values are not capable of representing every possible decimal accurately due to the limitations of floating-point arithmetic.

To declare a variable of type double, use the following syntax:


double myDouble = 3.14159;

You can perform mathematical operations on double values as well as utilize various mathematical functions provided by the Java Math class.

Choosing the Right Data Type

Now that you know about long and double, you might wonder which one to use for storing a 64-bit value. The answer depends on your specific requirements.

If you need to work with whole numbers and do not require decimal precision, using the long data type is recommended.

It ensures accuracy and provides a wider range of values for integers.

On the other hand, if you need to deal with fractional or decimal values, the double data type is more suitable. Keep in mind its limitations when it comes to precise decimal representation.

Summary

  • The long data type is a 64-bit signed integer, suitable for whole numbers.
  • The double data type is a 64-bit floating-point number, suitable for decimal values.
  • The choice between long and double depends on the specific requirements of your program.

In conclusion, when you need to store a 64-bit value in Java, consider whether it is an integer or a decimal. Choose the appropriate data type – long for integers and double for decimals – based on your program’s needs. By understanding the characteristics of each data type, you can ensure accurate representation and efficient computation in your Java programs.

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