How do approaches to memory release via stack cleanup differ in Java and C++?

In Java, memory management is automatic with the help of the garbage collector. The stack is used to store local variables and function calls, and memory on the stack is automatically freed when exiting a function — this happens without programmer intervention.

In C++, the stack is also used for local variables, and memory is automatically freed when exiting the scope (for example, when a function ends). However, for dynamically allocated memory (on the heap), the programmer must explicitly call delete or use smart pointers for automatic memory management.

Thus, the main difference is that in Java, heap memory release is controlled by the garbage collector, while in C++, it is controlled by the programmer. Stack memory release in both languages occurs automatically when exiting the scope.