There are times when the Linux Kernel uses inline assembler to either use specific instruction sequences for optimal code efficiency or to use processor features that are not accessible in C (e.g. memory barriers, I/O instructions, manipulating processor state, etc..).
GCC provides a mechanism to enable one to place inlined assembler into C source but to the beginner the syntax can be a little impenetrable. A useful little primer and guide to GCC inline assembler can be found at http://www.ibiblio.org/gferg/ldp/GCC-Inline-Assembly-HOWTO.html
The primer is a little old, but nevertheless it is still valid and very useful.
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