In programming, some languages are compiled and others are interpreted. Define the difference between the two.

An interpreter translates a program into machine code one line at a time. A compiler, however, scans the entire document and translates it into machine code as a whole. The overall execution time of an interpreter is longer than that of a compiler. Languages such as Python use are interpreted, and languages such as C and C++ are compiled.

JC

Related Computing A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is an Algorithm?


Outline the differences between how a compiler and an interpreter works, and explain the advantages and usage of of each [12 marks]


Describe the operations of an optical disk drive used to read data from an optical disk, such as a CD or DVD.


What are firewalls? Explain and discuss three methods they employ to secure a network. [8]