What differentiates high-level programming languages from low-level languages?

High-level programming languages are characterized by their abstraction away from the hardware. They are designed to be more user-friendly and easier for humans to read and write, utilizing syntax and semantics that resemble natural language or mathematical notation. This abstraction allows programmers to focus on solving problems and developing applications without needing to manage the low-level details of the computer's hardware and memory management.

For example, in high-level languages, developers can use constructs like loops, functions, and variables which are much more intuitive compared to the binary or assembly language used in low-level programming. This makes high-level languages particularly well-suited for application development, as they can enhance productivity and reduce the complexity of the coding process.

While other choices touch on aspects of programming languages, they either refer to functionalities specific to low-level programming or do not capture the essence of what makes high-level languages distinct compared to low-level ones. Thus, the primary differentiator is that high-level languages provide a greater level of abstraction, making them easier for humans to understand and use effectively.