What is package.json in Node.js?

The package.json file is a manifest file used in Node.js projects to define metadata and dependencies for the project. It serves as a central configuration file that specifies various details about the project, including its name, version, entry point, scripts, and dependencies.

Here are some key components of the package.json file:

• Name: The name field specifies the name of the Node.js package or project.
• Version: The version field specifies the version number of the package or project using semantic versioning (SemVer).
• Description: The description field provides a brief description of the package or project.
• Entry Point: The main field specifies the entry point of the application, i.e., the JavaScript file that will be executed when the package is required.
• Scripts: The scripts field allows developers to define custom scripts for various tasks such as running tests, building the project, or starting the application.
• Dependencies: The dependencies field specifies the dependencies required by the project. Dependencies can be external libraries, frameworks, or packages that the project relies on. Dependencies can be installed using the npm install command, and their versions are managed based on the version ranges specified in the package.json file.
• Dev Dependencies: The devDependencies field specifies dependencies that are only required for development and testing purposes. These dependencies are not installed in production environments by default.
• License: The license field specifies the license under which the package is distributed.

The package.json file plays a crucial role in managing Node.js projects and their dependencies. It enables developers to define project metadata, manage dependencies, and automate common tasks using scripts. Additionally, the package.json file serves as documentation for the project structure and dependencies, making it easier for developers to collaborate and share their code with others.