The correct spelling of the phrase "machine instruction" is /məˈʃiːn ɪnˈstrʌkʃən/. The word "machine" is pronounced with a short "u" sound (represented by the schwa symbol /ə/) followed by a long "e" sound. The second word, "instruction," features the stress on the second syllable (/ɪnˈstrʌkʃən/) and the "t" and "c" sounds overlapping in the middle of the word (/strʌkʃ/). When spelled correctly, the IPA transcription helps to ensure accurate pronunciation of technical terminology, such as "machine instruction."
A machine instruction, in the context of computer science and engineering, refers to a low-level command that is executed by a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor in a computer system. It is a fundamental unit of operation that directs the hardware to perform various tasks, calculations, or operations in a specific sequence. Machine instructions are encoded in binary form and are executed sequentially, one after another, by the CPU.
Each machine instruction is responsible for carrying out a specific operation or task within the computer architecture, such as performing arithmetic calculations, loading or storing data to registers or memory, branching to a different part of the program, or interacting with the input/output (I/O) devices. These instructions manipulate the various data and control structures within the computer system to execute the desired algorithm or program.
Machine instructions are often represented using a mnemonic code, known as assembly language, which allows programmers to write instructions in a more human-readable format. These assembly language instructions are then translated into their binary equivalent, known as machine code, through an assembler.
Overall, machine instructions form the basis of a computer program's execution, as they guide the CPU through the necessary operations required to perform calculations, make decisions, and carry out the program's logic. They provide the foundation for the overall functionality and behavior of a computer system, by orchestrating the execution of tasks at the hardware level.
The term "machine instruction" originated from the field of computer science and programming.
The word "machine" refers to the computer hardware, specifically the central processing unit (CPU) which executes instructions. "Instruction" refers to a specific command or operation that the CPU can perform.
The etymology of "machine" can be traced back to the Latin word "machina", meaning a device or contrivance. It has evolved over time to refer to various mechanical or electronic devices.
The term "instruction" comes from the Latin word "instructus", which means to teach or inform. It denotes a set of rules or commands given to someone or something to follow.
When combined, "machine instruction" refers to the specific commands or operations that are encoded in a machine language and executed by the computer's CPU. These instructions dictate the behavior of the computer and allow it to perform tasks and computations.