High- & Low-Level Languages Flashcards

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What is a high-level programming language?

A programming language written in a form close to human language, which must be translated into machine code by a compiler or interpreter before it can run.

What is a low-level programming language?

Machine code or assembly language — written for one specific type of processor and giving direct control of the hardware and memory.

Give two reasons why some programs are written in a low-level language.

Any two of: the program runs faster / uses less processor time; it uses less memory; it can directly control the hardware, e.g. in an embedded system; no unnecessary code is added by a compiler.

Give two reasons why a programmer would choose a high-level language.

It is easier to write, understand and debug, as it uses English-like keywords; it is portable, so the same source code can be translated to run on different types of processor.

Give two disadvantages of writing a program in a low-level language.

Any two of: the code is difficult to read, write and debug; it is not portable, as it normally runs on only one type of processor; it takes longer to write.

Give two disadvantages of a high-level language compared with a low-level language.

Any two of: it must be translated before it can run; the program usually runs more slowly; it tends to use memory less efficiently; it gives less direct control of the hardware.