What is the purpose of a CyclicBarrier in Java?

CyclicBarrier is a synchronization utility class in Java that allows a group of threads to wait for each other before proceeding to a common point. Once the common point is reached, they can all execute simultaneously. Its main functions include:

1. Synchronized control: CyclicBarrier can be used to control the execution of a group of threads, allowing them to wait at a certain point and then continue executing only when all threads have reached that point. This is very useful for scenarios that require coordination and synchronization of operations between multiple threads.
2. Concurrent task decomposition: CyclicBarrier can also be used to break down a large task into multiple subtasks and execute these subtasks in parallel. Each subtask will wait for other subtasks to reach the same point before continuing together. This can improve the efficiency of task execution.
3. Periodic tasks: CyclicBarrier can also be used for executing tasks periodically. When all threads reach the waiting point, they can continue to execute the next cycle of tasks. This is very useful for scenarios where a certain operation needs to be executed periodically.

In conclusion, the purpose of CyclicBarrier is to allow multiple threads to wait for each other at a common barrier point before continuing together, achieving synchronization, task decomposition, and periodic execution functions.