Can using too many static variables cause a memory leak in Java?

Question

If my application has too many static variables or methods, then as per definition they will be stored in heap. Please correct me if I am wrong
1) Will these variables be on heap until application is closed?
2) Will they be available for GC at any time? If not can I say it is a memory leak?

Answer 1

1) yes. if they are reference type, they will be stored in heap.
2) no, but if their classloaders are collected, may be they are. memory leak? that depends on you.