Question

Fill in the blanks in each of the following sentences about the \(C++\) environment. a. \(C++\) programs are normally typed into a computer using a(n) _______ program. b, In a \(\mathrm{C}++\) system, \(\mathrm{a}(n)\)_______program executes before the compiler's translation phase begins. c. The _______ program combines the output of the compiler with various library functions to produce an executable image. d. The _______ program transfers the executable image of a \(\mathrm{C}++\) program from disk to memory.

Short answer

a. editor, b. preprocessor, c. linker, d. loader.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Development Process

To fill in the blanks, we first need to understand the stages in developing and executing a C++ program. These stages typically include writing the code, preprocessing, compiling, linking, and execution.

Filling Blank for a

For a C++ program, the initial step is to write the program into a file. This is usually done using a text **editor**. Hence, the word that fits the first blank is **'editor'**.

Filling Blank for b

Before the compiler translates the code into machine code, the code is processed by the preprocessor. This makes the correct word **'preprocessor'**.

Filling Blank for c

After the code is compiled, the linking stage combines this compiled code with necessary libraries. Therefore, the correct word for this blank is **'linker'**.

Filling Blank for d

The executable image needs to be loaded into memory to run. The program responsible for this is the **'loader'**. So, the word for the last blank is **'loader'**.

Key concepts

Text Editor

A text editor is your starting point in the C++ programming environment. It is a software tool where you write and edit your C++ code. Text editors provide essential features to make coding easier, such as syntax highlighting, auto-indentation, and line numbers which help in reading and debugging the code.

Common examples of text editors include Notepad++, Visual Studio Code, and Sublime Text. These editors are favored for their simplicity and the vast range of plugins available. They don’t compile or execute the code; instead, they purely focus on helping you write and manage your code efficiently.

Compiler

The compiler is a crucial component of the C++ development process. It translates your human-readable C++ code into machine code that your computer can execute. The compiler checks for syntax errors and converts the high-level code into object code.

When you compile a C++ program, the compiler goes through several steps: it checks for syntax, parses the code, converts it to a symbol and an intermediate form, optimizes this intermediate form, and finally translates it into machine language. If errors are found during compilation, they must be resolved before you can proceed.

Linker

Once the compiler has successfully compiled the program, the linker comes into play. The linker is responsible for combining various object code files into a single executable file. This includes not only the code you’ve written but also any libraries or other resources that your program needs.

Libraries are collections of precompiled routines that the linker brings in so that your program can use them, thereby saving you from rewriting common functionalities. Thus, the linker creates a cohesive program ready for execution by resolving references to undefined symbols and fixing their addresses.

Loader

The loader has the task of transferring the program from a storage device into the system memory. This process happens when you run the program.

The loader ensures that the executable image is loaded in a way that allows the CPU to execute it efficiently. It involves setting up the memory space and ensuring that all necessary components are contained and accessible. Hence, the loader is essential as it prepares the execution environment for your program.

Development Process

The development process in C++ programming consists of several stages that transform your ideas into a working application. It starts with writing your source code using a text editor.

Once your code is written, it proceeds to the preprocessing stage, where directives are handled. Post preprocessing, the compiler takes over, translating the code to a form the machine understands. After compilation, the linker ensures all components are gathered together to enable execution. Finally, the loader puts your program into memory, ready to run when prompted.