What is the difference between a compiler and an interpreter?

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In summary, compilers and interpreters both convert high level programming language into machine language, but interpreters do it in real time and potentially in small fragments rather than line by line. Interpreters also handle the precedence of operations and can allow for the generation of high level language within the code. Compilers, on the other hand, convert the entire code into machine language or pseudo-machine language at compile time.
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PhysicsBegner
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Hi,

I have a very fundamental doubt in compiler and interpreter. Compiler converts the high level programming language into machine understandle form and interpreter does the same but as line by line. So when an interpretor converts the high level language into machine codes (line by line) does it simultaneously executes in processor or only after converting the entire code into machine or opcode its executed in processor?
 
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The interpreter is converting the high level language into machine language in real time. It could be doing this in fragments of a line instead of line by line, perhaps one operator at a time. There is some line oriented parsing done in order to handle the precedence (the order) of operations to be peformed. In some cases, interpreters allow the high level language to generate text to be executed as more high level language, such as the execute operator in APL. APL also allows the dynamic creation of functions from a matrix of generated text.

Compilers convert high level language into machine language or in some cases, some form of psuedo-machine language at compile time. If it's pseudo machine language, you have something similar to an interpreter to execute the psuedo machine language.
 

1. What is the difference between a compiler and an interpreter?

A compiler is a computer program that translates source code into machine code, which is then executed by the computer. An interpreter, on the other hand, directly executes the source code without creating an intermediate representation. This means that a compiler creates an executable file that can be run independently, while an interpreter requires the original source code to be present during execution.

2. How does a compiler work?

A compiler works by taking in the source code as input and analyzing it to create an intermediate representation. This intermediate representation is then optimized and converted into machine code, which is specific to the target platform. The resulting executable file can then be run by the computer.

3. What is the advantage of using a compiler over an interpreter?

One advantage of using a compiler is that it can produce an executable file, which can be distributed and run on different computers without the need for the source code. This makes it more efficient for large and complex programs. Additionally, the compilation process can also optimize the code for better performance.

4. Can a compiler and an interpreter be used together?

Yes, it is possible to use both a compiler and an interpreter together. This is known as a hybrid approach, where the compiler creates an intermediate representation, and the interpreter executes it. This can provide the benefits of both methods, such as faster development and portability of the code.

5. Are there any programming languages that use only an interpreter?

Yes, there are programming languages that are designed to be interpreted only, such as Python, JavaScript, and Ruby. These languages are often used for scripting or web development, where the source code does not need to be compiled into an executable file.

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