What is the term for code that is written in a high-level programming language and needs to be translated into machine language?

Prepare for the KAMSC Sophomore Computer Science Test. Boost your knowledge with flashcards and comprehensive multiple-choice questions. Ace your exam with detailed explanations for each answer!

The term "source code" refers to the original code that is written by programmers in a high-level programming language. This code is understandable by humans and typically features a syntax that is easier to work with compared to lower-level languages. In order for a computer to execute the instructions contained within the source code, it must be translated into machine language, which is the binary code that a computer's processor can interpret directly.

High-level programming languages abstract the complexity of the underlying machine code, making it possible to write more complex programs without needing to manage the intricacies of hardware directly. The translation process usually involves a compiler or an interpreter, which converts the source code into machine code or another form of executable code.

The other options refer to different concepts in programming. Bytecode is an intermediate code typically produced by a compiler that is not directly executed by the machine but by a virtual machine, whereas machine code is the binary representation that the computer understands. Assembly code is a low-level programming language that is more closely related to machine code but still requires translation into machine language.

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