3rd generation language

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3rd generation language

3rd generation languages (3GLs) are high-level programming languages that are machine-independent and allow programmers to write code using human-readable syntax. They provide a higher level of abstraction than assembly languages, making them easier to use and understand.

What does 3rd generation language mean?

A third-generation language (3GL) is a high-level programming language that uses a concise and easy-to-read syntax, similar to human language. Unlike low-level languages such as assembly language, which requires programmers to write Instructions in a form that can be directly understood by the computer’s hardware, 3GLs use a higher level of Abstraction, allowing programmers to focus on the logic and functionality of their programs rather than the underlying hardware details.

3GLs typically feature structured syntax and data types, which enable the creation of more complex and modular programs. They also offer a wide range of built-in functions and libraries, simplifying the development process and reducing the need for manual coding. As a result, 3GLs are widely used in various software development projects, from web applications to enterprise systems.

Applications

3GLs are essential in modern technology due to their versatility and ease of use. They have a wide range of applications, including:

  • Web development: 3GLs like Python, JavaScript, and PHP are extensively used in web development. They allow developers to create interactive and dynamic websites with features such as database connectivity, form handling, and user authentication.
  • Mobile app development: 3GLs such as Java, Kotlin, and Swift are commonly used for mobile app development. They enable developers to create native apps for iOS and Android platforms, leveraging device-specific features and capabilities.
  • Desktop applications: 3GLs like C++, C#, and Visual Basic are used to develop desktop applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. These applications can provide a rich user Interface and access local resources such as files, graphics, and network connections.
  • Enterprise software: 3GLs are used to develop large-scale enterprise software systems, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. They enable organizations to automate business processes and manage complex data structures.

History

The concept of 3GLs emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s, as a response to the limitations of earlier programming languages like assembly language and FORTRAN. Assembly language was difficult to write and maintain, while FORTRAN was designed specifically for scientific computing applications.

The first 3GL, COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language), was developed in 1959 by a consortium of computer manufacturers and users. COBOL was designed to be easy to read and write for business users, and it quickly became the dominant language for business applications.

Other popular 3GLs developed in the 1960s and 1970s include BASIC (Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code), Pascal, and C. BASIC was designed as a simple and easy-to-learn language for beginners, while Pascal and C were more structured and powerful languages for professional programmers.

Since then, numerous 3GLs have been developed, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular modern 3GLs include Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and C#. These languages continue to be widely used in software development today, due to their versatility, ease of use, and ability to handle complex programming tasks.