Python

Python is a high-level, interpreted, general-purpose programming language known for its remarkable readability, simplicity, and versatility. Created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991

Key Features

1. Easy to Learn & Read:

   • Minimalistic syntax (fewer symbols like {} or ;).

   • Uses indentation for code blocks, enforcing visual structure.

   • Reads almost like pseudocode, lowering the barrier for beginners.

2. Interpreted & Interactive:

   • Runs line-by-line via the Python interpreter (no compilation step).

   • Supports an interactive mode (REPL) for quick testing and prototyping.

3. Multi-Paradigm:
   Supports procedural, object-oriented (OOP), and functional programming styles.

4. Dynamically Typed:

   • Variable types are inferred at runtime (no explicit type declarations).

   • Flexible but requires careful testing to avoid runtime errors.

5. Cross-Platform:
   Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and more.

6. "Batteries Included" Philosophy:
   Ships with a vast standard library for tasks like file I/O, web protocols, databases, and data compression.

Why Python? Key Strengths

Python Code Example (Simple & Readable)

python

# Calculate factorial of a number
def factorial(n):
    if n == 0:
        return 1
    else:
        return n * factorial(n-1)

print(factorial(5))  # Output: 120

Limitations

• Slower Execution: Being interpreted, it’s slower than compiled languages (C++, Java) for CPU-heavy tasks.

• Global Interpreter Lock (GIL): Limits true multi-threading (though multiprocessing avoids this).

• Not Ideal for Mobile Apps: Weak native mobile support (Kivy/BeeWare exist but are niche).

Who Uses Python?

• Google (core search algorithms, YouTube)

• NASA (scientific computing)

• Netflix (data analysis, server automation)

• Spotify (recommendation systems)

• Dropbox (desktop client backend)

• AI Researchers (PyTorch/TensorFlow dominance)

Python 2 vs. Python 3

• Python 2 (EOL in 2020) is obsolete.

• Python 3 (current) has modern features like async/await, type hints, and Unicode support. Always use Python 3!

Python’s blend of simplicity and power makes it the #1 language for beginners, the go-to tool for data science/AI, and a staple in modern software development. 🐍✨