Opcode
An opcode (operation code) is a fundamental component of machine language instructions in computer architecture, representing the specific operation to be performed by a CPU, such as addition, data movement, or branching. It is typically a binary or hexadecimal number that the processor decodes to execute tasks, often accompanied by operands that specify the data or memory addresses involved. Opcodes are the building blocks of assembly language and low-level programming, directly controlling hardware behavior.
Developers should learn about opcodes when working with low-level programming, embedded systems, or performance optimization, as understanding them enables direct control over CPU operations and efficient code execution. This knowledge is crucial for tasks like writing assembly language, developing compilers or interpreters, debugging at the hardware level, or reverse engineering software, where precise manipulation of machine instructions is required.