What is the primary function of a compiler?

What is the primary function of a compiler?

• A. To debug programs
• B. To translate high-level code into machine code
• C. To execute code directly
• D. To write code automatically

Answer: (B)

The primary function of a compiler is to translate high-level code into machine code. High-level programming languages, such as Python, Java, or C++, are designed to be easy for humans to read and write. However, computers can only understand instructions in their native machine code, which is a low-level binary representation. When a programmer writes code in a high-level language, the compiler takes this code as input and processes it to produce machine code that the computer's processor can execute. This translation involves several stages, including lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, optimization, and code generation. The result is an executable file or an object code that can directly run on the hardware of the computer. Other functions mentioned, such as debugging or executing code, are performed by different tools or components in the programming ecosystem. Debugging, for example, is handled by debuggers that help identify and fix errors in code, while interpreters can execute high-level code directly without translating it into machine code first. Writing code automatically is typically related to code generation tools or low-code platforms, which is distinct from the core function of a compiler.

The primary function of a compiler is to translate high-level code into machine code. High-level programming languages, such as Python, Java, or C++, are designed to be easy for humans to read and write. However, computers can only understand instructions in their native machine code, which is a low-level binary representation.

When a programmer writes code in a high-level language, the compiler takes this code as input and processes it to produce machine code that the computer's processor can execute. This translation involves several stages, including lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, optimization, and code generation. The result is an executable file or an object code that can directly run on the hardware of the computer.

Other functions mentioned, such as debugging or executing code, are performed by different tools or components in the programming ecosystem. Debugging, for example, is handled by debuggers that help identify and fix errors in code, while interpreters can execute high-level code directly without translating it into machine code first. Writing code automatically is typically related to code generation tools or low-code platforms, which is distinct from the core function of a compiler.