2.5 programming languages + IDEs

What are the two types of programming language?

• High level

• Low level

What are the characteristics of a high level language?

• Syntax closely resembles natural language, and therefore easier for humans to understand

• Slower execution

• Uses more memory

• Limited control over hardware

• Must be translated into machine code (so that it can be executed by the CPU)

What are the characteristics of a low level language?

• Syntax doesn’t resemble natural language, and therefore harder for humans to understand

• Quicker execution

• Uses less memory

• Direct control over hardware

• Does not need be translated into machine code

What is the purpose of a translator?

To convert a program written in one high level language into machine code.

Why are translators needed?

Because computers only understand and can execute machine code.

What are the two types of translator?

• Compiler

• Interpreter

What is a compiler?

A type of translator that translates source code all at once and produces an executable file (that can be run on other computers without the compiler being installed).

What are the benefits of using a compiler?

What are the drawbacks of using a compiler?

What is a interpreter?

A type of translator that translates source code line by line.