Software → Computer Architecture
Machine Code
Binary instructions executed directly by a processor.
Motivation
Machine code solves the problem of representing executable instructions in the binary form a CPU can run.
Where it fits
Machine Code belongs to computer architecture and programming languages.
Mental model
Machine code is the final low-level instruction stream interpreted by the processor hardware.
Common mistakes
- Thinking machine code is the same for all CPUs.
- Ignoring operating system and executable format details.
Related concepts
Machine Code connects to assembly language, compiler, CPU, instruction set architecture, and binary number.