KOMPILER

A compiler is a computer program that translates source code written in a high-level programming language (e.g., C++, Java, Python) into a lower-level language, typically assembly language or machine code. This lower-level code can then be directly executed by a computer's central processing unit (CPU).

The compilation process involves several stages, including:

• Lexical Analysis (Scanning): The source code is broken down into a stream of tokens, which are the basic building blocks of the language (e.g., keywords, identifiers, operators, literals).

• Syntax Analysis (Parsing): The tokens are analyzed to determine if they conform to the grammatical rules of the programming language. A parse tree (or syntax tree) is constructed to represent the syntactic structure of the code.

• Semantic Analysis: The parse tree is checked for semantic errors, such as type mismatches, undeclared variables, and incorrect use of operators. Type checking and scope resolution are performed during this phase.

• Intermediate Code Generation: The compiler generates an intermediate representation of the code, which is a platform-independent form that is easier to optimize and translate into target code.

• Code Optimization: The intermediate code is optimized to improve its performance, such as reducing the number of instructions, eliminating redundant computations, and improving memory usage.

• Code Generation: The optimized intermediate code is translated into the target code (assembly language or machine code).

• Symbol Table Management: Throughout the compilation process, the compiler maintains a symbol table, which stores information about the identifiers (variables, functions, etc.) used in the source code.

Compilers are essential tools for software development, as they allow programmers to write code in human-readable languages and then automatically translate it into machine-executable instructions. The efficiency and effectiveness of a compiler can significantly impact the performance of the resulting software.