What is the purpose of the `throws` keyword in Java?

• A. To declare a method as final
• B. To define a method to be synchronized
• C. To indicate that a method may throw exceptions
• D. To allow a method to return multiple values

Answer: (C)

The throws keyword in Java is used to indicate that a method may throw exceptions during its execution. When a method declares that it throws one or more exceptions, it signals to callers of that method that they should handle these exceptions appropriately, whether by catching them or declaring them in their own method signatures. This is particularly important for checked exceptions, which are exceptions that the Java compiler requires to be either handled or declared.

Using the throws keyword helps in ensuring that error handling is an explicit part of the calling code, promoting robust programming practices. It enhances readability and maintainability by making it clear to anyone using the method which exceptions they should consider.