What are the key features of a self-compiling compiler?

A self-compiling compiler, also known as a self-hosting compiler, is capable of compiling its own source code.

A self-compiling compiler is a unique type of compiler that can take its own source code as input and produce an executable file as output. This is a key feature of a self-compiling compiler and it is what sets it apart from other types of compilers. This ability to compile its own source code is often used as a test of the compiler's functionality and correctness.

One of the main features of a self-compiling compiler is its ability to generate code that is as efficient, or more so, than the code produced by a human programmer. This is because the compiler has a deep understanding of the language it is compiling and can optimise the code in ways that a human programmer might not think of or be able to do.

Another key feature of a self-compiling compiler is its ability to evolve and improve over time. As the compiler is used to compile its own source code, any improvements or optimisations made to the compiler can be immediately applied to the compiler itself. This means that the compiler can continually improve and optimise its own performance.

Self-compiling compilers are also highly portable. Because they can compile their own source code, they can be easily moved from one system to another. All that is needed is a basic compiler to bootstrap the self-compiling compiler on the new system. Once the self-compiling compiler is running on the new system, it can be used to compile its own source code and any other code written in its language.

In summary, the key features of a self-compiling compiler are its ability to compile its own source code, its ability to generate efficient code, its ability to evolve and improve over time, and its portability. These features make self-compiling compilers a powerful tool in the field of computer science.