Compiled language
Compiled language[edit]
A compiled language is a programming language in which programs are translated from the high-level source code to machine-readable code, known as object code, before they are executed. In contrast to interpreted languages, compiled languages require a separate compilation step to generate executable code.
Advantages of using a compiled language[edit]
There are several advantages to using a compiled language like Elixir:
Performance[edit]
Compiled languages often offer improved performance over interpreted languages. Since the code is translated into machine language ahead of time, it can be executed more efficiently by the underlying hardware.
Portability[edit]
Once a program is compiled into machine code, it can be executed on any system that supports the target architecture. This makes compiled programs more portable compared to interpreted programs, which may rely on specific interpreters or runtimes.
Security[edit]
Compiled languages can offer increased security as the source code is not visible to end-users. This can be particularly important for applications that handle sensitive information or require protection from reverse-engineering.
Compilation process in Elixir[edit]
In Elixir, a functional and dynamically-typed programming language, the source code is compiled into bytecode that runs on the Erlang virtual machine (BEAM). This bytecode is then executed by the Erlang runtime system.
The compilation process in Elixir involves multiple steps, including lexical analysis, parsing, and code generation. The Elixir compiler analyzes the source code, checks for errors, and transforms it into an abstract syntax tree (AST), representing the structure of the program. This AST is then transformed into BEAM bytecode, which can be executed by the Erlang virtual machine.
During compilation, Elixir leverages the capabilities of the Erlang ecosystem, allowing seamless interoperability between Elixir and Erlang code. This makes Elixir a powerful language for building distributed and fault-tolerant systems.