What is the main function of a compiler in the software development process?

The main function of a compiler is to convert source code written in a high-level programming language (such as Dart in the case of Flutter) into machine code or intermediate code that is understandable by a computer or virtual machine. This allows the program to run on a device. The compiler also performs syntax and semantic checks, optimizes the code for better performance, and detects errors during the compilation stage before the program runs.