JavaScript

November 21, 2023 - Around 3 mins mins to read

What Is JavaScript?

JavaScript (JS) is a programming language primarily used for developing web applications. In the early days of the internet, web pages were static and non-interactive. Recognizing this limitation, the founder of the Mozilla Foundation dedicatedly worked on creating a programming language called JavaScript to enable the creation of interactive web pages by manipulating the logical structure known as the Document Object Model (DOM). JavaScript was inspired by two programming languages, Java and Scheme, and incorporated the best aspects of both, resulting in an intuitive syntax and practical libraries and toolsets.

What Makes JavaScript a Powerful Language?

In the world of programming, two paradigms have gained popularity over time: object-oriented programming and functional programming. Object-oriented programming involves classes and methods interacting through objects, representing real-time relationships on an instance basis. On the other hand, functional programming focuses on pure functions and avoids shared state and mutable data. JavaScript supports both paradigms, making it a versatile language.

Another factor that contributes to the power of JavaScript is its engine, which is the second most important component in the JavaScript ecosystem. The JavaScript engine can perform just-in-time (JIT) compilation, which means it compiles computer code at the time of execution, improving productivity and saving storage space.

The JavaScript engine consists of two important components: the memory heap and the call stack. Memory allocation occurs in the memory heap, while the call stack keeps track of function calls. Unlike some programming languages that can run multiple sets of instructions simultaneously, JavaScript is single-threaded, meaning it has only one call stack. To overcome this limitation, JavaScript incorporates asynchronous callbacks, allowing it to perform parallel programming despite being single-threaded.

JavaScript is also known for its unique characteristics, making it a popular choice among programmers. Despite its quirks, its support for different programming paradigms and its innovative engine have made it a favored language for next-generation technologies. Inventors in the cloud, AI, and blockchain industries rely on JavaScript to develop their solutions and drive innovation.

Use of JavaScript in Crypto

In the crypto industry, JavaScript plays a crucial role in building blockchain-based solutions and tokens. Developers in this industry aim to create products that solve problems for end-users, similar to other industries. JavaScript’s extensive ecosystem of prebuilt UI/UX and front-end solutions makes the work of crypto developers easier. They utilize libraries like Web3.js to connect backend applications with Ethereum, enabling faster development by leveraging ready-made components within a single programming environment. JavaScript is also an essential component of lightning apps, a network built on the Bitcoin blockchain, and the Raiden network, an infrastructure built on Ethereum.

Although JavaScript entered the crypto space relatively late, it has gained significant traction. Millions of developers have embraced JavaScript, and its presence in the crypto industry continues to grow steadily.