Translators And Languages (yr 11)

Question 1

What is the difference between high-level and low-level languages?

Answer 1

High-level languages (e.g. Python) are easier for humans to read and write, using syntax similar to English.

Low-level languages (e.g. assembly) are closer to machine code and allow direct hardware manipulation.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a compiler?

Answer 2

A compiler translates high-level source code into machine code in one go before the program is run. It produces an executable file and checks for all syntax errors at once.

Question 3

What is the purpose of an interpreter?

Answer 3

An interpreter translates and runs code line-by-line. It stops when it encounters an error, making it easier to debug during development.

Question 4

What is an assembler?

Answer 4

An assembler converts assembly language into machine code. It is used to program hardware at a low level.

Question 5

State two advantages of using high-level languages.

Answer 5

1. Easier and faster to write, understand, and maintain.
2. Portable across different hardware systems.

Question 6

State two advantages of using low-level languages.

Answer 6

1. Greater control over hardware.
2. More efficient in terms of speed and memory usage.