Which keyword is used to extend an abstract class in Java?

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In Java, the keyword that is specifically used to extend an abstract class is "extends." This keyword is fundamental in the inheritance hierarchy of Java and allows a subclass to inherit characteristics and behaviors (methods) from a superclass, which can be either a regular class or an abstract class.

When a subclass uses the "extends" keyword, it means that this new class is building upon the existing abstract class, enabling it to implement the abstract methods defined in that class. An abstract class serves as a blueprint for other classes and may contain both abstract methods (which do not have a body) and concrete methods (with an implementation). The subclass that extends this abstract class gains the ability to provide specific implementations for these abstract methods, thereby adhering to the principle of encapsulation and specialization in object-oriented programming.

The other choices do not correctly convey the action of extending an abstract class. "Implements" is used when a class adopts an interface rather than extending another class. "Inherits" is a concept rather than a keyword in Java; it describes the relationship but is not used in the code syntax. "Includes" is not a recognized keyword in this context and does not represent inheritance or class extension in Java programming. Thus, "extends" is the accurate and