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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.
Remember: Unlike lists, tuples cannot be modified after creation. This property makes them useful in scenarios where a constant set of values is required.

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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

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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))

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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,

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Comparing Lists and Tuples

While lists offer flexibility through mutability, tuples provide a reliable structure for fixed data. A quick comparison:
Data TypeMutabilityCreation SyntaxUse Case
ListMutableSquare brackets []Data that may change over time
TupleImmutableParentheses ()Fixed data that should not change
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.

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