Kernel, OS overlay or Programming Language

Installation Home Assistant OS
1

I’ve seen Python referenced in the development of Home Assistant, so, before I even get started…
When installed on Raspberry Pi:

  1. Is Home Assistant an Operating System or a programming lanquage.
  2. If an Operating System, does it replace the native Raspberry kernel?

Thank You Very Much,
Steve

2

If you install Home Assistant OS, then you indeed have an operating system.
Home Assistant Core is a software application written in python, not a programming language. It is running on top of the Home Assistant OS, but can also be run without Home Assistant OS on many other operating systems, such as the Raspberry Pi OS. See the different install methods -> https://www.home-assistant.io/installation/