L1 - Translators

Which language does the CPU actually execute?

• Python

• Machine code

• Assembly

• English

Answer explanation

Machine code
Explanation: The computer's brain (CPU) only understands machine code, which is just 0s and 1s — not words like Python or English.

A compiler translates…

• one line at a time while the program runs

• the whole program before it runs

• only comments in the code

• user input into natural speech

Answer explanation

the whole program before it runs
Explanation: A compiler reads the entire code and changes it all into machine code before the program starts, like preparing a full recipe before cooking.

An interpreter is slower than a compiler mainly because it…

• must connect to the internet first

• guesses the programmer’s intention

• translates each line just before it runs

• creates giant executable files

Answer explanation

translates each line just before it runs
Explanation: An interpreter reads and translates one line at a time while running, like reading a story out loud one word at a time instead of reading the whole thing first.

Which statement is a misconception about programming languages?

• High-level code is easier for humans to read.

• Computers can fill in “obvious” missing steps on their own.

• Machine code is made of 0s and 1s.

• Assembly language uses mnemonics like MOV.

Answer explanation

Computers can fill in “obvious” missing steps on their own.
Explanation: Computers are not smart like people—they only do exactly what you tell them and can’t guess what you mean.

A program with no syntax errors but wrong output has a…

• Logic error

• Compiler error

• Translator error

• Operand error

Answer explanation

Logic error
Explanation: If your code runs but gives the wrong answer, it means the steps or thinking in the code are wrong—not the spelling or grammar.

The role of an assembler is to convert…

• machine code → Python

• high-level code → machine code

• assembly language → machine code

• pseudocode → flowchart

Answer explanation

assembly language → machine code
Explanation: An assembler takes simple code like “MOV” and turns it into the 0s and 1s that the computer can understand.

Which benefit belongs to a compiler, not an interpreter?

• Runs instantly without translation

• Shows errors as soon as they occur

• Produces a stand-alone executable file

• Lets you change the code while it is running

Answer explanation

Produces a stand-alone executable file
Explanation: A compiler makes a finished program that can run by itself without needing to translate the code again.

Computers understand only .................code. 

Answer explanation

Computers understand only machine code.
Explanation: Computers can only read 0s and 1s, which is called machine code—they don’t understand human languages.

Python is classed as a ................-level language. 

Answer explanation

Python is classed as a high-level language.
Explanation: Python is easy for humans to read and write, so it’s called high-level, like using simple words instead of secret codes.

An interpreter translates code line by ...................... while it runs. 

Answer explanation

An interpreter translates code line by line while it runs.
Explanation: An interpreter reads and changes one line of code at a time while the program is running, like reading each sentence out loud as you go.