Variables and Memory in Python
Variables and Memory
Memory management in Python is handled automatically by the Python interpreter. Python uses a technique called garbage collection to reclaim and reuse memory occupied by objects that are no longer in use. This automatic memory management eliminates the need for manual memory allocation and deallocation, simplifying the development process and reducing the risk of memory-related errors.
Topics covered in variables and memory in python
Variables and Memory in python programming Language
Memory references in Python : In Python, memory references are pointers that keep track of where objects are stored in memory. Each variable or object in Python is associated with a memory reference, which allows the interpreter to access and manipulate the underlying data. Understanding memory references is crucial for memory management and efficient programming in Python.
Garbage collection in Python : Garbage collection in Python is an automatic process where unused or unreferenced objects are identified and reclaimed by the interpreter's memory management system. It helps in freeing up memory resources and preventing memory leaks. Python's garbage collector handles the deallocation of objects that are no longer in use, making memory management easier for developers.
Mutable and Immutable Objects in Python : In Python, objects can be classified as either mutable or immutable based on whether they allow changes after creation. Mutable objects, like lists and dictionaries, can be modified in-place, while immutable objects, like strings and tuples, cannot be modified once created. Understanding the mutability of objects is essential for correct and efficient programming in Python.
None Value in Python : In Python, None is a built-in object that represents the absence of a value. It is often used to indicate that a variable or object does not have a meaningful or valid value assigned to it. None is a singleton object, meaning there is only one None object in memory, and it can be used as a placeholder or default value in various contexts.
How Integers are stored in Python : Integers in Python are stored as objects in memory. The size of the integer object depends on the platform and the magnitude of the integer value. Python uses a variable-length encoding strategy, where integers are stored in a compact form to optimize memory usage. This allows Python to handle integers of any size efficiently.
How float is stored in Python : Floating-point numbers (floats) in Python are stored using the IEEE 754 standard for binary floating-point arithmetic. The float object in Python consists of a sign bit, exponent, and mantissa, which together represent the numerical value of the float. Python's float implementation adheres to the floating-point standards, allowing accurate representation and manipulation of real numbers.