1. Introduction
Local and global variables are two types of variables used in Python programming. A local variable is declared inside a function and is only accessible within that function. It's like having a secret that only you know. On the other hand, a global variable is declared outside any function, usually at the top of a Python file, and can be accessed and modified by any function in the program. It's like a public announcement that everyone can hear and respond to.
2. Key Points
1. Scope: Local variables have a local scope, while global variables have a global scope.
2. Accessibility: Local variables are accessible only within their function, whereas global variables are accessible throughout the program.
3. Lifetime: The lifetime of a local variable is limited to the function’s execution, but a global variable exists throughout the execution of the program.
3. Differences
| Aspect | Local Variable | Global Variable |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Local to the function | Entire program |
| Accessibility | Only within the function | Anywhere in the program |
| Lifetime | Exists only while the function is executing | Exists throughout the program’s execution |
4. Example
# Example of a Local Variable
def my_function():
local_var = 10 # This is a local variable
print(local_var)
# Example of a Global Variable
global_var = 20 # This is a global variable
def another_function():
print(global_var)
Output:
For the local variable: 10 For the global variable: 20
Explanation:
1. In the first example, local_var is defined inside my_function and is printed within that function. It's not accessible outside my_function.
2. In the second example, global_var is defined outside another_function, making it accessible both inside and outside the function.
5. When to use?
- Use local variables when you want the data to be accessible only within a specific function. This helps in preventing accidental modifications from other parts of the program.
- Use global variables when you need to share data across multiple functions, or when the data needs to persist throughout the runtime of the program.
Related Python Posts:
Difference Between Local and Global Variables in Python
Difference Between List and Tuple in Python
Difference Between Array and List in Python
Difference Between List and Dictionary in Python
Difference Between List, Tuple, Set and Dictionary in Python
Difference Between a Set and Dictionary in Python
Difference between for loop and while loop in Python
Difference Between pass and continue in Python
Difference Between List append and extend in Python
Difference Between == and is operator in Python
Difference Between Deep and Shallow Copy in Python
Class Method vs Static Method in Python
Class Method vs Instance Method in Python
Difference Between List and Set in Python
Difference Between Generator and Iterator in Python
Difference Between str and repr in Python
Method Overloading vs Overriding in Python
Difference Between Dictionary and Tuple in Python
Difference Between Dictionary and Object in Python
Difference Between Mutable and Immutable in Python
Difference Between Interface and Abstract Class in Python
Comments
Post a Comment
Leave Comment