Fortran, short for Formula Translation, is a high-level programming language primarily used in scientific and engineering applications. Developed in the 1950s by IBM, Fortran was the first available high-level programming language and remains one of the oldest programming languages in use today.
Fortran is known for its simplicity and focus on efficient numerical computations. It allows users to write code in a concise and structured manner, making it particularly favored among scientists and engineers working with complex mathematical calculations. Fortran's strength lies in its ability to perform numerical simulations and solve mathematical equations with ease.
The language provides various built-in functions and libraries that facilitate mathematical operations, including extensive support for complex numbers, arrays, and numerical manipulation. It also offers numerous control structures, such as loops and conditionals, to allow users to write efficient and logical code.
Fortran code is traditionally written in a free-form style, but it can also be formatted in a fixed-layout form, using cards or columns. Modern versions of Fortran, such as Fortran 90 and Fortran 95, have introduced many enhancements, including modular programming, array operations, and support for object-oriented programming.
Despite being an older language, Fortran still sees significant use today, especially in scientific and engineering domains where performance and numerical accuracy are crucial. Its long-standing presence and extensive library support make it an excellent choice for computational mathematics and simulations.
