A compiler translates code written in a high-level programming language into a lower-level language like assembly language, object code and machine code (binary 1 and 0 bits). It converts the code ahead of time before the program runs. An interpreter translates the code line-by-line when the program is running.
A compiler is a special program that translates a programming language's source code into machine code, bytecode or another programming language. The source code is typically written in a high-level, human-readable language such as Java or C++.
A compiler translates the entire source code into machine code before execution, resulting in faster execution since no translation is needed during runtime. On the other hand, an interpreter translates code line by line during execution, making it easier to detect errors but potentially slowing down the program.
The compiler translates source code into machine code, which is responsible for starting and ending the main function and assigning values to memory locations. Understanding assembly language is crucial for understanding how computers read and execute code.