C#.NET — Is it possible to explicitly invoke the Garbage Collector (GC)?

Introduction / Context:
The .NET runtime manages memory automatically via a garbage collector. Developers sometimes wonder whether they can force a collection for testing or diagnostics, and what the implications are.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are considering explicit APIs versus automatic behavior.
• We focus on what is possible, not necessarily recommended.

Concept / Approach:
.NET exposes APIs such as GC.Collect(), GC.GetTotalMemory(...), and GC.WaitForPendingFinalizers(). Calling GC.Collect() requests that the runtime perform a collection across generations, though the GC retains ultimate control. Explicit collection is generally discouraged in production because it can hurt performance and disrupt generational heuristics.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Create a small test harness, allocate objects, call GC.Collect(), and observe memory/free lists via diagnostic tools.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• No: Incorrect — the API is present and callable.

Common Pitfalls:
Misusing explicit collections can increase pause times and degrade throughput; rely on profiling before forcing collections.

Final Answer:
Yes