What is the difference between @RequestParam and @PathVariable in Spring MVC?

@PathVariable extracts a value embedded directly in the URI path itself, e.g. /users/{id} binds {id} to a method parameter — used for identifying a specific resource. @RequestParam extracts a value from the query string, e.g. /users?status=active binds status to a parameter — used for optional filters, pagination, or sorting options that aren't part of the resource's identity.