FORTRAN (Formula Translation) and COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) are among the earliest high-level programming languages, developed in the 1950s. While FORTRAN was designed for scientific and engineering calculations, COBOL was created for business data processing.
Definition and Historical Context
FORTRAN
FORTRAN is a high-level programming language that was first released in 1956 by IBM. It was developed to facilitate efficient computation in scientific and engineering tasks, such as numerical weather prediction, computational physics, and structural engineering. The syntax of FORTRAN is designed to closely resemble mathematical formulas, making it easier for scientists and engineers to learn and use.
COBOL
COBOL is another high-level programming language, created in 1959 by a committee led by Grace Hopper. Unlike FORTRAN, COBOL was specifically designed for business applications, such as payroll systems, office automation, and financial services. COBOL’s syntax is similar to English, which aimed to make it readable and maintainable by managers and executives without extensive programming knowledge.
Key Features and Syntax
Key Features of FORTRAN
- Numerical Computations: Optimized for mathematical calculations.
- Compiled Language: Converts source code into machine code for efficient execution.
- Array Processing: Supports multi-dimensional arrays, which are crucial for scientific computing.
- Modularity: Includes features like functions and subroutines to structure code.
Syntax Example of FORTRAN
1PROGRAM HelloWorld
2 PRINT *, "Hello, World!"
3END PROGRAM HelloWorld
Key Features of COBOL
- Business-Orientated: Strongly supports data processing features.
- Division-Based Structure: Divides a program into four divisions: Identification, Environment, Data, and Procedure.
- Verbose Syntax: Uses an English-like syntax that is easy to read.
- File Handling: Extensive capabilities for file input and output operations.
Syntax Example of COBOL
1IDENTIFICATION DIVISION.
2PROGRAM-ID. HelloWorld.
3PROCEDURE DIVISION.
4 DISPLAY 'Hello, World!'.
5STOP RUN.
Applications and Use Cases
Applications of FORTRAN
- Scientific Computing: Meteorological simulations, astrophysics, and fluid dynamics.
- Engineering Analysis: Structural analysis, finite element analysis, and computational fluid dynamics.
- High-Performance Computing: Leveraged in supercomputing environments for intensive computations.
Applications of COBOL
- Business Applications: Payroll processing, inventory management, and customer relationship management.
- Finance and Banking: Transaction processing, ledger maintenance, and loan management systems.
- Governance: Used by governmental agencies for various administrative systems.
Comparisons and Related Terms
Comparison: FORTRAN vs. COBOL
- Primary Use: FORTRAN is used for scientific applications; COBOL is used for business applications.
- Syntax: FORTRAN’s syntax is more concise and mathematically oriented; COBOL’s syntax is verbose and English-like.
- Performance: FORTRAN is designed for computational efficiency; COBOL focuses on data processing and business logic.
Related Terms
- Assembly Language: A low-level programming language that is closer to machine code.
- ALGOL: Another early programming language aimed at scientific applications.
- Lisp: An early and influential language in the field of artificial intelligence.
FAQs
Q1: Are FORTRAN and COBOL still used today?
Yes, both languages are still in use today, particularly in legacy systems within science, engineering (FORTRAN), and finance, business (COBOL).
Q2: Can modern programmers easily learn these languages?
Yes, but it might take some effort due to their less user-friendly syntax and structure compared to contemporary languages.
Q3: What are some modern alternatives to FORTRAN and COBOL?
C++ and Python have largely replaced FORTRAN in scientific computing, while Java and C# are more common in business applications previously dominated by COBOL.
Summary
FORTRAN and COBOL are pioneering programming languages that laid the groundwork for modern software development in their respective fields. While they are less user-friendly than current languages, their contributions to scientific and business applications remain significant. Understanding these languages enhances one’s comprehension of the evolution of programming and the specialized needs they addressed.
FORTRAN and COBOL have proven their robustness and efficiency in their respective domains, standing as a testament to the ingenuity of early computer scientists and programmers. Despite their antiquated nature, they remain pillars in the history of computer programming.
