Page 71 - 2403_Trackpad_V5.1_C6_Fb
P. 71
There are two categories of low-level languages:
Machine Language
Machine language is the only language understood by the computer. It is also known as the first
generation language (1GL). Machine language is very difficult for programmers to use because
it only consists of two digits, 0 and 1, called binary digits or bits. Where the bit ‘0’ represents the
OFF state and the bit ‘1’ represents the ON state.
Assembly Language
Assembly language is also known as second-generation language (2GL). It is the language in
which program codes are written in the form of alphanumeric symbols called 'Mnemonics Code'
instead of 0 and 1. In the assembly language, a programmer writes abbreviations such as A for
addition, C for compare, L for load, M for Multiply, etc.
HIGH-LEVEL LANGUAGE
High-level language is considered to be closer to human beings. It is machine-independent
language. However, they need to be translated into binary or machine language. Programs
written in high-level languages are called source code. Since the computer understands only 0s
and 1s, all high-level languages require a software called language processor or translator to
convert the instructions into machine language are also called object code. Let’s discuss about
some high-level languages.
Third-Generation Languages (3GL)
In third-generation languages (3GL), the programmer writes a series of English like words
that tell the computer what to do and how to do it. Many third-generation languages also use
arithmetic operators such as * for multiplication and + for addition. Some early procedural 3GL
are BASIC, PASCAL, C and FORTRAN. C++, Java, C#, and other advanced object-oriented 3GL
languages are also available.
Fourth-Generation Languages (4GL)
The fourth-generation languages also use English-like statements. They specify what the
program should accomplish without explaining how. 4GL is fast and requires less time and effort
on the part of the programmer. In fact, 4GLs are so easy to use that programmers with very little
programming background can develop programs. Examples of 4GL are SQL, Perl, Python, etc.
Natural Languages (5GL)
The fifth-generation languages, also known as natural languages are the programming
languages that have visual tools to develop a program. Examples of fifth-generation languages
include Mercury, OPS5, and Prolog. Natural language is very easy to use. Natural languages are
often associated with expert systems and artificial intelligence.
uiz Bee Which language is also known as computer's native language?
_______________________________________________________________
Algorithm & Flowchart 69

