Math.abs() reporting error: cannot find symbol

Question

I'm new to java and I'm trying to figure out how the Math functions work. I can't figure out what I'm missing.

Here's the entire program:

    public class Math {

    public static void main(String args[])
      {
        double x = Math.abs(4); 
        System.out.println(x);   
      }
    }

When I try to compile it, jGRASP says, "Math.java:5: error: cannot find symbol double x = Math.abs(4);"

I'm just trying to figure out how the function's supposed to work right now. ABS (4) is simple. — rayden54, Oct 03 '13 at 22:52
@Quirliom That's sort of like asking "Why are you writing a program that prints 'hello, world'"? — ajb, Oct 03 '13 at 22:52

score 9 · Accepted Answer · answered Oct 03 '13 at 22:42

9

You called your class Math, so the built-in java.lang.Math class can't be resolved. So Java thinks you're attempting to call your own abs method that doesn't exist.

Call your class something else, or refer to Math.abs with a fully qualified class name: java.lang.Math.abs(4).

answered Oct 03 '13 at 22:42

rgettman

176,041
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I tried changing the class name (and file name) to MyTest. I've still got the same error. Although java.lang.Math.abs(4) does work. – rayden54 Oct 03 '13 at 22:54
3

Delete Math.java and Math.class from your directory; your `Math` class is still being picked up. – rgettman Oct 03 '13 at 22:56

score 0 · Answer 2 · answered Oct 03 '13 at 23:03

0

You could also try:

public class MyTest {

public static void main(String args[])
  {
    double x = java.lang.Math.abs(4); 
    System.out.println(x);   
  }
}

answered Oct 03 '13 at 23:03

Skylion

2,696
26
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Math.abs() reporting error: cannot find symbol

2 Answers2