Final answer:
One would use an object to bundle data when the elements are related and form a single entity, providing clarity and maintainability. Lists or arrays are preferred for collections of similar items where operations like iteration or preserving order are important.
Step-by-step explanation:
When choosing a method's parameter types and/or return types, you might prefer to use an object to bundle together data rather than a list or array when the data elements are related to one another and represent a single entity or concept. An object like a Coord with fields for x and y coordinates groups these related pieces of data and provides context, making the code more readable and maintainable.
On the other hand, you would prefer to use a list or array when you are working with a collection of similar items that do not necessarily form a single conceptual entity. Lists and arrays are suitable for situations where you need to perform operations like iterating over the elements, or when the order of elements is significant.
Advantages of Using Objects:
Objects provide a clear structure and meaning, as properties can be named.
Methods can be added to objects to manipulate the internal data.
Objects can have validation and encapsulation to protect the integrity of the data.
Advantages of Using Lists/Arrays:
Lists/arrays are simpler to iterate over.
They are optimal for ordered data.
They offer potentially better performance for simple collections of data.