How is python executed?

Question 1

General summary

Answer 1

• Bytecode Compilation: High-level Python code is transformed into low-level bytecode by the Python interpreter with the help of a compiler. Bytecode is a set of instructions that Python’s virtual machine (PVM) can understand and execute.
• On-the-fly Interpretation: The PVM reads and executes bytecode instructions in a step-by-step manner.
• bytecode advantage: platform-independent. Can be run on any machine with compatible PVM

Question 2

Compilation steps

Answer 2

1. Lexical Analysis: The source code is broken down into tokens, identifying characters and symbols for Python to understand.
2. Syntax Parsing: Tokens are structured into a parse tree to establish the code’s syntax and grammar.
3. Semantic Analysis: Code is analyzed for its meaning and context, ensuring it’s logically sound.
4. Bytecode Generation: Based on the previous steps, bytecode instructions are created.
5. Just-In-Time (JIT) Compilation
   • Boosts efficiency by selectively compiling parts of the program frequently used
   • Compiles machine code on the fly

Question 3

Just-In-Time (JIT) Compilation

Answer 3

• Boosts efficiency by selectively compiling parts of the program frequently used
• Compiles machine code on the fly