Abstract method

[Lancy Mendonca]

Had a small query about abstract method:
Why is it not possible to say
abstract class one
{
private abstract void f();
}
The compiler gives an error message

[Ajith Kallambella]

The compiler gives an error because abstarct methods cannot be declared as private. Here's why -
Abstract classes are incomplete classes. Tagging a method as abstract indicates that the subclass needs to override the method to make the implementation complete. However, we also know private methods cannot be overridden because they are not visible outside the class. This makes abstract and private qualifiers mutually exclusive and hence they cannot be used together.
Hope this helps.
Ajith

[Lancy Mendonca]

Thanks Ajith. Your help is appreciated