In Java, what will happen if you try to assign a different value to a final variable?

The correct response to this question is that attempting to assign a different value to a final variable in Java will result in a compilation error. This is because the keyword final signifies that the variable can only be assigned a value once. Once you have initialized a final variable, any subsequent attempts to assign a new value lead to a violation of this rule, hence the compiler prevents the code from compiling.

In practice, this means that final variables are often used to create constants that should not change throughout the execution of the program. As a result, they ensure the immutability of the value, providing a safeguard against accidental changes that could introduce bugs or unintended behaviors in the code. This characteristic is crucial for writing reliable and maintainable software.