Compilation Process in C Programming

Overview

The compilation process in C programming involves several stages that convert the C source code into an executable program. Each stage performs a specific task to ensure that the code is correctly translated into a form that can be executed by the computer.

1. Preprocessing

The preprocessing stage handles directives that begin with the # symbol, such as #include, #define, and #if.

#include <stdio.h>

#define PI 3.14

int main() {
    printf("Value of PI: %f\\n", PI);
    return 0;
}
            

2. Compilation

In the compilation stage, the preprocessed code is translated into assembly code specific to the target processor.

3. Assembly

The assembly stage converts the assembly code into machine code, producing an object file.

4. Linking

The linking stage combines object files and libraries into a single executable file. This includes resolving references to functions and variables between different files and libraries.

Summary

• Preprocessing: Handles directives and macros.
• Compilation: Converts code to assembly language.
• Assembly: Converts assembly to machine code.
• Linking: Combines object files and libraries into an executable.