Quick Answer
The answer is a compilation error because x is private in A. This occurs because Java’s access control strictly limits private field accessibility to only the class where the field is declared; class B, even as a subclass, cannot directly reference `super.x` from a different class. The Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 exam frequently tests this principle to ensure you understand that private members are not inherited and cannot be accessed by subclasses or unrelated classes, regardless of being in the same file. A common trap is assuming that subclass status or being in the same source file grants access, but Java’s encapsulation rules override both. Remember the mnemonic: “Private means parent-only, no child or neighbor.”
This 1Z0-811 practice question tests your understanding of java basics and syntax. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
class A {
private int x = 5;
}
class B extends A {
public void print() {
System.out.println(x);
}
}Refer to the exhibit. What is the result of attempting to compile and run the code?
class A {
private int x = 5;
}
class B extends A {
public void print() {
System.out.println(x);
}
}Compilation error because x is private in A
Private members are not inherited.
Prints 0
Why wrong: No default value; compilation fails.
Runtime error
Why wrong: Code does not compile.
Prints 5
Why wrong: x is private, so inaccessible.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Compilation error because x is private in A
The code fails to compile because class B attempts to access the private field `x` of class A from a different class. In Java, private members are only accessible within the same class, not from subclasses or other classes, even if they are in the same file. The `super.x` reference in class B is illegal, causing a compilation error.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Compilation error because x is private in A
Why this is correct
Private members are not inherited.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Prints 0
Why it's wrong here
No default value; compilation fails.
Runtime error
Why it's wrong here
Code does not compile.
Prints 5
Why it's wrong here
x is private, so inaccessible.
Common exam traps
Oracle often tests the misconception that private members are accessible in subclasses, especially when the subclass is in the same file or package, but Java's access control is strictly class-based, not file-based.
Detailed technical explanation
Java's access control is enforced at compile time by the compiler, which checks that private fields are only accessed within the enclosing top-level class. Even though class B extends A, private members are not inherited; they are hidden from subclasses. This design enforces encapsulation and prevents subclasses from depending on implementation details of the superclass.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 1Z0-811 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Java Basics and Syntax — study guide chapter
Learn the concepts, then practise the questions
Java Basics and Syntax practice questions
Targeted practice on this topic area only
All 1Z0-811 questions
509 questions across all exam domains
Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 study guide
Full concept coverage aligned to exam objectives
1Z0-811 practice test guide
How to use practice tests most effectively before exam day
Related practice questions
Use these pages to review the topic behind this question. This is how one missed question becomes focused revision.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to What is Java.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Java Basics and Syntax.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Primitives, Strings and Operators.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Control Flow and Loops.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Arrays and Methods.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Object-Oriented Programming.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to Exception Handling and Development Tools.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to 1Z0-811 fundamentals.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to 1Z0-811 scenario.
Practise 1Z0-811 questions linked to 1Z0-811 troubleshooting.
Practice this exam
Short sessions build daily habit. Longer sessions build exam-day stamina. Try a timed session to simulate real conditions.
FAQ
Java Basics and Syntax — This question tests Java Basics and Syntax — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Compilation error because x is private in A — The code fails to compile because class B attempts to access the private field `x` of class A from a different class. In Java, private members are only accessible within the same class, not from subclasses or other classes, even if they are in the same file. The `super.x` reference in class B is illegal, causing a compilation error.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
Courseiva creates original exam-style practice questions with explanations and wrong-answer analysis. It does not publish real exam questions, exam dumps, or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Keep practising
Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This 1Z0-811 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Oracle certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 1Z0-811 exam.
Question Discussion
Share a tip, memory trick, or ask about the reasoning behind this question. Do not post real exam questions, leaked content, braindumps, or copyrighted exam material. Comments are moderated and may be removed without notice.
Sign in to join the discussion.