Machine vs. High-Level Languages | Module 1: Introduction to Python and Computer Programming

Programming languages exist at different levels of abstraction:

Machine Language (Low-Level): This is the most basic language, consisting of binary (0s and 1s) or hexadecimal instructions that a computer's CPU can execute directly. It's very difficult for humans to read or write.
Assembly Language (Low-Level): A step above machine language, assembly uses mnemonic codes (like ADD, MOV) to represent machine instructions. It still requires a deep understanding of computer architecture.
High-Level Languages: These languages (like Python, Java, C#, JavaScript) are designed to be human-readable and easier to work with. They use English-like syntax and abstract away many of the complex details of the computer's hardware. High-level code must be translated (compiled or interpreted) into machine language to run.