Why is source code used in programming?

It's the only language a computer can understand.
It makes hacking harder
It is faster to run.
It is easier for humans to understand.

Source code is used in programming because it is easier for humans to understand and write instructions for the computer. While it is true that a computer can only understand machine language, which consists of binary code (0s and 1s), writing programs directly in machine language would be extremely time-consuming and error-prone for humans.

Source code, written in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, serves as an intermediate form between human-readable instructions and machine-executable instructions. It allows programmers to write complex algorithms and instructions using a syntax that is easier for humans to understand, and then it needs to be translated into machine language using a compiler or interpreter.

Additionally, working with source code improves collaboration and maintainability. Multiple programmers can work together on the same codebase, making it more efficient to develop software. With access to the source code, developers can also debug and fix issues, enhance functionality, and optimize performance.

While it is true that having the source code can potentially make hacking harder, it is not the primary reason for using source code in programming. The main benefit lies in allowing humans to write and understand programs.