Final answer:
Compilers translate high-level programming languages into machine code, optimizing code performance and enabling program execution on different platforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Compilers can profoundly impact computing by translating high-level programming languages into machine code that can be executed by a computer. They play a crucial role in the software development process, as they optimize code, improve performance, and ensure compatibility across different platforms.
For example, compilers can perform specific optimizations, such as loop unrolling and dead code elimination, which can significantly improve the efficiency and speed of a program. They also enable developers to write code using higher-level programming languages, which are easier to read and understand than low-level machine code.
In summary, compilers are essential tools in computing that bridge the gap between human-readable code and machine-executable instructions, greatly impacting the way software is developed and executed.