C is a structured, high-level programming language used to develop software and mobile apps. It has various features like rich built-in functions, operators, and is portable across platforms. A basic C program requires a main() function which acts as the program entry point where execution begins inside opening and closing braces. The compiler converts C code into machine-readable executable code. Common software used for writing, compiling, and running C programs are CodeBlocks, Dev C++, and GNU C Compiler.