The key difference between interpreted and compiled programming languages lies in how the source code is executed by the computer:
1. Compiled Languages:
- Definition: A compiled language is a programming language whose source code is translated directly into machine code (binary code) by a compiler before execution.
- Process: The compiler reads the entire source code, translates it into an intermediate or machine language, and produces an executable file. This executable can then be run independently of the original source code.
- Examples: C, C++, Rust, Go.
- Pros:
- Faster execution because the program is already in machine code.
- Errors are caught during the compilation process, preventing them from occurring at runtime.
- Cons:
- Compilation time can be long, especially for large programs.
- The compiled code is platform-dependent and needs to be recompiled for different systems.
2. Interpreted Languages:
- Definition: An interpreted language is executed line by line by an interpreter, rather than being compiled into machine code first.
- Process: The interpreter reads and executes the source code directly, translating it into machine instructions in real-time as the program runs.
- Examples: Python, JavaScript, Ruby.
- Pros:
- Easier to debug because errors are detected during execution.
- Platform-independent, as long as an interpreter is available for the platform.
- Cons:
- Slower execution compared to compiled languages since each instruction is interpreted on the fly.
- Requires the presence of the interpreter to run the program.
Summary:
- Compiled Languages: Translate source code into machine code before execution; fast execution but slower to develop.
- Interpreted Languages: Execute code directly, line by line; more flexibility but slower execution.