Introduction to Compilers
The chapter introduces the fundamental principles of compilers, detailing the abstraction levels of programming languages and the multi-stage compilation process. It explores the distinctions between high-level and low-level languages, outlines the phases of compilation from lexical analysis to code generation, and discusses specialized compilation scenarios such as bootstrapping and cross-compilation. Overall, the text provides a comprehensive understanding of how high-level code is systematically transformed into low-level machine instructions.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Abstraction is essential in managing complexity in programming languages.
- Compilation involves a multi-stage process of refining high-level source code into low-level target code.
- High-Level Languages (HLL) prioritize human readability, while Low-Level Languages (LLL) offer closer control over hardware.
Key Concepts
- -- Abstraction
- A fundamental principle that manages complexity by focusing on essential information and hiding lower-level details.
- -- HighLevel Language (HLL)
- Languages designed for easy human understanding, prioritizing readability and human-centric operations over direct hardware manipulation.
- -- LowLevel Language (LLL)
- Languages that offer direct control over hardware and require in-depth knowledge of the computer's architecture.
- -- Compiler Phases
- The distinct stages in compiling, including lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, intermediate code generation, code optimization, and code generation.
- -- Bootstrapping
- The process of developing a compiler in the language it is intended to compile, enabling self-sustaining compiler development.
- -- CrossCompilation
- A compilation process where the host system differs from the target system, allowing code to be compiled for different architectures.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.