Object file

So, when you write a program, you write it in a language that people can read, like English. But computers can't understand that language! They need a special "translated" version. That's where an object file comes in.

An object file is like a "halfway" version of your program. It's still not in a language the computer can run, but it's closer. It's kind of like a blueprint for your program.

When you compile your program, the compiler takes your human-readable code and turns it into an object file. But you can't run that object file yet! It still needs to be combined with other object files and turned into a final executable program.

It's like building a house. You start with blueprints (the object files), then you build the foundation, walls, and roof (combine the object files), and finally you move in and start living there (run the final program).

So, object files are just part of the process of creating a runnable program. They're like a stepping stone on the way to the final destination!