Which programming language translates code into machine languages for execution?

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 correct answer is a compiler, as its primary function is to translate high-level programming code into machine language or binary code, which can then be executed by a computer's processor.

Compilers take the entire source code, analyze it, and generate an executable program. This process involves several stages, such as lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, optimization, and code generation. Once the compilation is complete, the resulting machine code can be run directly by the hardware, making compilers integral to performance in many programming environments.

While interpreters also translate code into machine language, they do so line by line at runtime rather than producing a complete executable beforehand. Assemblers convert assembly language (a low-level programming language) into machine code, while debuggers are tools used to test and debug code rather than translate it.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy