In C#, a thread represents an independent path of execution within a program. Each thread has its own life cycle, which consists of different states it transitions through. The life cycle of a thread in C# typically includes the following states:
- Unstarted State: When a thread is created but has not yet started executing, it is in the unstarted state.
- Ready State: Once a thread is created and is ready to execute, it moves to the ready state. In this state, the thread is waiting for the scheduler to allocate processor time.
- Running State: When the scheduler assigns processor time to a thread, it enters the running state. In this state, the thread’s code is actively being executed.
- Wait/Sleep State: A thread can enter a wait or sleep state voluntarily or due to external factors. When a thread is waiting for a specific condition or a certain period of time, it enters the wait/sleep state. In this state, the thread does not consume processor time.
- Blocked State: If a thread is waiting for a resource or synchronization lock held by another thread, it enters the blocked state. The thread remains blocked until the required resource becomes available.
- Terminated State: When a thread completes its execution or is explicitly terminated, it enters the terminated state. In this state, the thread is no longer scheduled for execution.
It’s important to note that thread states may vary slightly depending on the specific implementation and operating system. Additionally, the transitions between states can be affected by factors such as thread priorities, synchronization mechanisms, and thread interruptions.
C# provides various classes and methods in the System.Threading namespace to create, manage, and control threads, such as the Thread class and its methods like Start(), Sleep(), and Join(). These features allow you to work with threads and control their life cycle within your C# applications.