Java is a platform-independent language. This means that Java programs can run on any operating system or platform that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) installed. The JVM acts as a runtime environment for Java programs, translating the Java bytecode into machine code that can be executed by the underlying operating system.

Java achieves platform independence through the use of the "write once, run anywhere" principle. This means that Java code can be written once on one platform, and then run on any other platform that has a compatible JVM. This is possible because Java programs are compiled into bytecode, which is a platform-independent intermediate representation of the code. The bytecode can then be executed on any platform that has a JVM.

Advantages of Platform Independence in Java:

- Portability: Java programs can be easily moved from one platform to another without the need for any modifications.
- Compatibility: Java programs are compatible with different operating systems and hardware architectures, allowing for wider distribution and usage.
- Simplified Development: Developers can focus on writing code without worrying about platform-specific details, such as memory management or hardware dependencies.
- Reduced Maintenance: Since Java programs are not tied to a specific platform, they require less maintenance and updates when the underlying platform changes.

Java's platform independence has made it a popular choice for developing cross-platform applications, such as web applications, mobile apps, and enterprise software. It has a large ecosystem of libraries, frameworks, and tools that support the development of various types of applications on different platforms.

In conclusion, Java is a platform-independent language, which means that Java programs can run on any platform that has a compatible JVM. This feature has contributed to the widespread adoption and popularity of Java in the software development industry.