1Z0-829 Handling Exceptions Practice Question
A Java application uses a custom resource class implementing AutoCloseable. The close() method throws a checked exception. In a try-with-resources block, if both the try block and the close() method throw exceptions, which exception is propagated to the caller? Assume the resource is declared in try-with-resources.
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often assume the last exception thrown (from close()) overwrites the first, or that both exceptions are thrown together, when in fact the try block exception is primary and the close() exception is suppressed.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
The exception from the try block is the primary exception, and the close() exception is added as a suppressed exception.
In a try-with-resources block, when both the try block and the close() method throw exceptions, the exception from the try block is the primary exception propagated to the caller. The exception thrown by close() is added to the primary exception's suppressed exception list, as defined by the Java Language Specification (JLS §14.20.3.2). This ensures that the most relevant exception (the one from the application logic) is not masked by a resource-closing failure.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
The exception from the try block is the primary exception, and the close() exception is added as a suppressed exception.
Why this is correct
Correct behavior per Java try-with-resources.
- ✗
The exception from close() is always the primary exception.
Why it's wrong here
The try block exception takes precedence.
- ✗
Both exceptions are thrown simultaneously as a multi-catch exception.
Why it's wrong here
Java does not throw multiple exceptions; one is primary, others suppressed.
- ✗
The exception from the try block is always suppressed.
Why it's wrong here
The try block exception is primary, not suppressed.
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