4.6.2.1 Classification of programming languages

Question 1

When would you program in a low level language?

Answer 1

When you need the program to execute quickly and minimise object code size
When you’re writing code to directly access hardware or for a specific processor

Question 2

Why program in assembly over machine code?

Answer 2

It’s easier to understand so you make less mistakes and it takes less time and is easier to debug. You can add comments and use symbolic names for operands and use labels

Question 3

What does imperative mean in an imperative programming language?

Answer 3

The sequence of execution of instructions determined by the programmer, it consists of commands for the computer to perform.

Question 4

What does declarative mean in a declarative programming language?

Answer 4

The programmer states what is to be done when programming but not how to do it, e.g SQL. You don’t program the step-by-step instructions but you explain what you want to happen.

Question 5

What’s the differences between high level and assembly language?

Answer 5

HLL is quicker and easier to write, it’s easier to understand, easier to debug, less likely to make mistakes. Selection/iteration/sequence constructs are available, data types, variables, identifiers etc. The program will raise different types of errors in HLL and it’s more portable.

Question 6

Why are there so many third generation programming languages?

Answer 6

Languages are sometimes used for certain areas and problems and provide certain function libraries. Some languages are designed for certain devices or hardware which creates competition between companies.

Question 7

Explain the term low-level language.

Answer 7

A language that is very similar to / based upon the instruction set of the computer;