FOR File – What is .for file and how to open it?

Definition and Characteristics of FOR Files

A FOR file denotes a Fortran 77 Source File, utilized for storing source code written in Fortran 77, a programming language developed in the late 1970s. Fortran (Formula Translation) is a high-level language designed primarily for scientific and numerical computation tasks. Its FOR files contain human-readable textual instructions that are translated into machine-executable code by a compiler before execution.

Usage and Significance of FOR Files

FOR files play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of Fortran programs. They serve as the starting point for the compilation process, which converts the source code into a format that can be understood and executed by a computer. FOR files typically include program logic, data structures, and mathematical calculations. These files are essential for programmers to create and modify Fortran applications, making them indispensable tools in various computational domains, including scientific research, engineering, and data analysis. By manipulating FOR files, developers can design and implement complex algorithms and models to solve a diverse range of problems.

Using a Text Editor

To open a .FOR file in a text editor, follow these steps:

1. Launch a text editor such as Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac).
2. Click “File” > “Open” from the menu bar.
3. Navigate to the location where the .FOR file is saved.
4. Select the .FOR file and click “Open.”

The text editor will display the contents of the .FOR file. You can view, edit, and save the file as needed. Note that text editors cannot execute .FOR files directly.

Using a Fortran Compiler

To open and execute a .FOR file using a Fortran compiler, follow these steps:

1. Install a Fortran compiler such as GNU Fortran or Intel Fortran on your system.
2. Open a command prompt or terminal window.
3. Navigate to the directory where the .FOR file is located.
4. Type the following command to compile and execute the .FOR file:


fortran filename.for


Replace “filename.for” with the actual name of the .FOR file. The compiler will compile and execute the .FOR program, displaying the output in the console window.

FOR File Format and Usage

FOR files contain source code written in Fortran 77, a high-level programming language primarily used for scientific and numerical computing. Fortran 77 was developed in the late 1970s as a successor to Fortran IV and is still widely used today, particularly in legacy systems and specialized applications. FOR files typically consist of statements that define variables, perform calculations, and control program flow. Fortran 77 is known for its structured programming approach, which promotes code readability and maintainability.

Applications and Benefits

FOR files are commonly used for developing programs that require high-performance numerical computations, such as those in the fields of engineering, physics, and finance. Fortran 77 excels in handling large datasets and complex calculations, making it a preferred choice for solving scientific and engineering problems. Its compiler optimization techniques result in the generation of efficient code that can take full advantage of modern hardware architectures. Additionally, Fortran 77 is cross-platform compatible, allowing for code portability across different operating systems and hardware platforms.

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