1. Introduction
In Python, loops are used to execute a block of code repeatedly. A for loop is typically used when you want to iterate over a sequence (like a list, tuple, dictionary, or string) or when the number of iterations is known beforehand. On the other hand, a while loop is used when you want the loop to continue until a certain condition is met, which means the number of iterations may not be known in advance.
2. Key Points
1. Iteration: For loops are used for iterating over a sequence, while loops are used based on a condition.
2. Syntax: For loops follow the syntax for item in sequence, while loops follow while condition.
3. Control: For loops automatically control the iteration process, while loops require manual control over the iteration.
4. Usage: For loops are typically used when the number of iterations is known, while loops when the number of iterations is unknown.
3. Differences
| Feature | For Loop | While Loop |
|---|---|---|
| Iteration | Over a sequence | Based on a condition |
| Syntax | for item in sequence | while condition |
| Control | Automatic | Manual |
| Usage | Known iterations | Unknown iterations |
4. Example
# Example of a For Loop
for i in range(3):
print(i)
# Example of a While Loop
i = 0
while i < 3:
print(i)
i += 1
Output:
For both loops, the output is: 0 1 2
Explanation:
1. The for loop iterates over the range of numbers from 0 to 2.
2. The while loop continues to execute as long as i is less than 3, incrementing i in each iteration.
5. When to use?
- Use for loops when you have a block of code that you want to repeat a fixed number of times or when iterating over items in a sequence.
- Use while loops when you need to continue executing a block of code until a certain condition changes, often when you don't know in advance how many times you'll need to iterate.
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