Language translation tools: Which of the following may be used to convert high-level language instructions into machine-executable form?

Introduction / Context:
High-level source code must ultimately become machine-executable. Two primary approaches exist: compilation and interpretation. Knowing the tool that performs direct execution by translating on the fly is key to understanding runtime behavior and performance trade-offs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We focus on converting high-level statements into actions a CPU can execute.
• “Interpreter” refers to a program that reads and executes source statements directly or after minimal translation.
• System software is a broad category that includes interpreters and compilers, but the question seeks a specific tool.

Concept / Approach:
An interpreter parses and executes the program statement-by-statement, often translating to intermediate steps at runtime. A compiler translates ahead-of-time into object/machine code. “Applications software” uses translators but is not itself a translator; an “operating environment” (like a GUI shell) does not perform language translation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Languages such as Python and JavaScript are commonly interpreted; REPL environments exemplify line-by-line translation and execution.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
System software: too broad and non-specific. Applications software: consumes translators; does not translate. Operating environment: provides runtime UI, not translation. None: incorrect because interpreters exist.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming only compilers perform translation; ignoring hybrid JIT approaches that still qualify as interpretation at runtime.

Final Answer:
an interpreter