What is the name of the program tool that can combine code from multiple sources?

The program tool that can combine code from multiple sources is known as the linker. A linker is responsible for taking one or more object files generated by compilers and combining them into a single executable file. This process involves resolving references between the different modules and ensuring that function calls and variable references point to the correct addresses within the executable.

For instance, when you develop a program with multiple source files, each file is typically compiled independently into an object file. The linker’s job is to connect these files, allowing them to work together as a cohesive program. It also ensures proper memory allocation for code and data sections.

In contrast, a compiler translates high-level code into machine code or an object file without handling the combination of multiple files. A loader, on the other hand, is responsible for loading the executable into memory for execution but does not combine code; it simply prepares the program to run. Lastly, a debugger is a tool used to test and debug programs, allowing developers to inspect the execution of the code but not to combine code sources.