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Compiler Design (All Modules) - 21
Compiler Design (All Modules) - 21
Offers several advantages over directly compiling source code to machine code:
o Portability: IL code can be translated to different machine code versions for various target platforms
without modifying the initial compilation stages.
o Optimization: The IL can be optimized independently of the target machine, allowing for more
advanced optimizations.
o Code Reusability: The same IL code can be used as input for generating code for different
architectures.
High-Level IL: Resembles the source code structure, making it easier to understand and potentially apply source-
level optimizations. (e.g., Three-address code)
Low-Level IL: Closer to machine code, focusing on representing machine instructions and data flow. (e.g.,
Bytecode used in Java Virtual Machine)
Understanding intermediate languages is essential for anyone interested in compiler design, virtual machines, or the
inner workings of program translation.
+-----------------+
| Source Code | (High-Level Language)
+-----------------+
|
V (Compile)
+-----------------+
| Intermediate |
| Language (IL) |
+-----------------+
|
V (Target-specific)
+-----------------+
| Machine Code | (For a specific architecture)
+-----------------+
|