Tuples

Python offers two primary sequence data types: lists and tuples. While lists are mutable—allowing you to modify their data by deleting items or appending new ones—tuples are immutable, meaning their data remains constant once created.

Creating and Using Tuples

A tuple is defined using parentheses or simply comma-separated values. Below is an example of creating and printing a tuple:

>>> tuple1 = (1, 2, 3)
>>> print(tuple1)
(1, 2, 3)

Much like lists, tuples support data access through loops and slicing. For instance, you can iterate through a tuple using a for loop:

>>> tuple1 = (1, 2, 3)
>>> for item in tuple1:
...     print(item)

Attempting to modify a tuple, however, results in errors. Unlike lists, tuples do not support methods like append, nor can you assign a new value to an individual element:

>>> tuple1 = (1, 2, 3)
>>> tuple1.append(4)
AttributeError: 'tuple' object has no attribute 'append'

>>> tuple1[1] = 9
TypeError: 'tuple' object does not support item assignment

Tuple Characteristics

• Immutable Structure: Once a tuple is created, its contents cannot be changed.
• Versatile Storage: Tuples can store elements of different data types including integers, strings, variables, and even other tuples.

For example, you can combine multiple data types into a single tuple:

>>> age = 22
>>> tuple1 = (1, "Lydia", age, (1, 2))

Single-Element Tuples

Creating a tuple with a single element requires a trailing comma to distinguish it from a regular parenthesized expression:

>>> tuple1 = (1,)
>>> tuple2 = 1,

Comparing Lists and Tuples

While lists offer flexibility through mutability, tuples provide a reliable structure for fixed data. A quick comparison:

That’s it for now! Dive into some hands-on practice with tuples in this lesson to reinforce your understanding and explore their practical applications.