Java is a language that supports both compilation and interpretation. The following explains the differences and benefits of each approach:
Compilation: Compilation is the process of converting source code into machine-readable code that can be executed directly by the computer's processor. In Java, the source code is compiled into bytecode, which is a platform-independent code that can be executed on any Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The bytecode is then interpreted by the JVM at runtime. The compilation has the benefit of generating optimized and efficient machine code that can execute faster than interpreted code.
Interpretation: Interpretation is the process of executing source code directly, line by line, without compiling it into machine code. In Java, interpretation is performed by the JVM, which reads and executes bytecode instructions one by one. Interpretation has the benefit of being more flexible, as it allows for dynamic runtime checks and modifications.
The benefits of having both a compiler and an interpreter in Java are:
In summary, the combination of a compiler and interpreter in Java provides developers with a fast, efficient, and secure environment for developing and executing Java programs.