When and how are static functions called: on an object or on a class?

Static functions in Java belong to the class, not to a specific object. They are called through the class name, not through an instance.

For example:

class MyClass {
    static void staticMethod() {
        System.out.println("Static method");
    }
}

// Calling the static method
MyClass.staticMethod();

Although it is technically possible to call a static method through an object, it is not recommended because the method does not depend on the state of the object and is called at the class level. Static methods are usually used for utilities, factory methods, and other functions that do not require an instance state.