Scala is a modern programming language that combines the features of both object-oriented and functional programming. It runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which allows it to interoperate seamlessly with Java and use existing Java libraries. This makes it a popular choice for developers looking to leverage the strengths of both programming paradigms. Designed to be concise and expressive, Scala enables developers to write less code while maintaining readability. Its strong static type system helps catch errors at compile time, improving code safety and reliability. Scala is widely used in data processing, web development, and distributed systems, making it a versatile tool for various applications.