When it comes to computer programming, there are two types of languages: compiled and interpreted. Compiled languages, such as C++ and Java, are translated into machine code that can be executed by the computer’s processor. On the other hand, interpreted languages, such as Python, are executed by an interpreter, which reads and executes the code line by line.
In a compiled language, the entire program is translated into machine code all at once, creating an executable file that can be run on the computer. This means that the program can be executed more quickly since it has already been translated into machine code.
In an interpreted language, the source code is executed directly by an interpreter, which reads and executes the code line by line. This means that the program may run more slowly since the interpreter has to translate the code into machine code as it runs.
Python is considered an interpreted language because the Python interpreter reads and executes the source code line by line, translating it into machine code as it goes. This makes Python code easier to write and test, but it may not be as fast as compiled languages for large, complex programs.
In conclusion, whether a language is compiled or interpreted can affect how quickly and efficiently a program runs. However, both types of languages have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of language often depends on the specific needs of the project.
Some academic and Non-Academic references that provide more information on the topic:
Sebesta, R.W. (2015). Concepts of Programming Languages. Pearson Education, Inc.
This textbook provides an overview of programming languages, including a detailed explanation of the differences between compiled and interpreted languages.
Lutz, M. (2013). Learning Python, 5th Edition. O’Reilly Media, Inc.
This book is a comprehensive guide to the Python programming language, including an explanation of how Python’s interpreter works and why it is considered an interpreted language.
Krishnamurthi, S. (2019). Programming Languages: Application and Interpretation. Available at http://cs.brown.edu/courses/cs173/2012/book/index.html
This online textbook provides a detailed exploration of programming languages, including an in-depth explanation of the differences between compiled and interpreted languages.
Batory, D., O’Malley, S., and Myers, G. (1996). The Design and Implementation of Hierarchical Software Systems with Reusable Components. ACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology, 5(4), 333-371.
This academic paper discusses the trade-offs between compiled and interpreted languages in the context of software design and implementation, providing insights into the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.
Appel, A.W. (1998). Modern Compiler Implementation in Java. Cambridge University Press.
This book provides a detailed explanation of the process of compiling source code into machine code, including an overview of the different types of compilers used in programming languages.
“Compiled language.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 March 2023. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compiled_language
“Interpreted language.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 13 February 2023. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interpreted_language
Wiki Hyphen Website | Updates 13th March 2023 | Link: https://www-wiki.com/What-is-the-difference-between-compiled-and-Interpreted-languages