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Python Introduction

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Script VS Program

The terms “script” and “program” are often used interchangeably, but there are some distinctions between them:

  1. Script:
  • A script is a type of program that is usually written in a scripting language.
  • Scripts are typically used to automate tasks or perform specific functions within a larger software system.
  • Scripts are often interpreted rather than compiled, meaning they are executed line by line by an interpreter.
  • Examples of scripting languages include JavaScript, Python, Perl, and Bash.
  1. Program:
  • A program is a set of instructions that are written in a programming language to perform a specific task or set of tasks.
  • Programs can be written in various programming languages and can range from small scripts to large applications.
  • Programs are usually compiled into machine code before they can be executed.
  • Examples of programming languages for writing programs include C, C++, Java, and Ruby.

In summary, a script is a type of program that is typically written in a scripting language and is used for automating tasks or performing specific functions, while a program is a set of instructions written in a programming language to perform a specific task.

Scripting Language vs Programming Language

The terms “scripting language” and “programming language” are often used interchangeably, but there are some distinctions between them:

  1. Scripting Language:
  • A scripting language is a type of programming language that is used to write scripts, which are typically interpreted rather than compiled.
  • Scripting languages are often used for automating tasks, writing small programs, or adding functionality to existing software applications.
  • Scripting languages are usually easier to learn and use compared to traditional programming languages.
  • Examples of scripting languages include JavaScript, Python, Perl, and Bash.
  1. Programming Language:
  • A programming language is a formal language that specifies a set of instructions that can be used to produce various kinds of output.
  • Programming languages are used to create software applications, websites, games, and other types of programs.
  • Programming languages can be high-level (closer to human language) or low-level (closer to machine language).
  • Examples of programming languages include C, C++, Java, Python, and Ruby.

In summary, a scripting language is a type of programming language that is often used for writing scripts and automating tasks, while a programming language is a more general term that refers to any language used to write computer programs, ranging from small scripts to large applications.

What is Python

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity and readability. It was created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. Python is a programming language, but it can also be used for scripting and automation. Python is widely used in various fields such as web development, data science, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, and more. Some key features of Python include:

  1. Easy-to-read syntax: Python’s syntax is designed to be clear and readable, making it easier for beginners to learn and understand.

  2. Interpreted language: Python code is executed line by line by an interpreter, which allows for quick development and testing.

  3. Extensive standard library: Python comes with a large standard library that provides support for many common tasks, such as working with files, networking, and more.

  4. Dynamically typed: Python is dynamically typed, meaning you don’t need to specify variable types explicitly. This can make coding faster and more flexible.

  5. Versatile: Python can be used for a wide range of applications, from simple scripts to complex web applications and data analysis.

Overall, Python is a versatile and powerful programming language that is popular among developers for its simplicity, readability, and wide range of applications.

Compiler languages vs Interpreter languages

Compiler languages and interpreter languages are two different approaches to executing code in programming languages.

Compiler languages:

  1. Compilation: In compiler languages, the source code is converted into machine code or an intermediate representation before execution. This compiled code can be executed directly by the computer’s processor.
  2. Efficiency: Compiled code tends to be faster and more efficient as it is already translated into machine code.
  3. Error checking: Compilers perform a thorough analysis of the code before execution, which can help catch errors early in the development process.
  4. Portability: Compiled code is usually platform-specific, meaning it may need to be recompiled for different operating systems or architectures.
  5. Examples: C, C++, Java, Rust

Interpreter languages:

  1. Interpretation: In interpreter languages, the source code is executed line by line by an interpreter at runtime. The interpreter translates each line into machine code or intermediate code and executes it immediately.
  2. Flexibility: Interpreted languages are often more flexible and interactive, allowing for easier debugging and dynamic typing.
  3. Portability: Interpreted code is usually more portable as it can be run on any system with the appropriate interpreter installed.
  4. Performance: Interpreted code can be slower than compiled code as it is translated and executed on the fly.
  5. Examples: Python, Ruby, JavaScript, PHP.

Examples of compiler languages include C, C++, and Java, while examples of interpreter languages include Python, Ruby, and JavaScript. Some languages, like Java, use a combination of compilation and interpretation (Java is compiled into bytecode, which is then interpreted by the Java Virtual Machine).

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