Can you explain async/await in Python?

Can you explain async/await in Python?

Sure! Async/await is a syntax in Python that allows you to write asynchronous code more easily. It helps in managing tasks that take time, like I/O operations, without blocking the execution of your program.

How does it differ from regular functions?

Regular functions run synchronously, meaning they block the execution until they complete. In contrast, async functions can pause their execution with 'await', allowing other tasks to run in the meantime.

Can you give me a simple example?

Of course! Here's a basic example:

import asyncio

async def main():
    print('Hello')
    await asyncio.sleep(1)
    print('World')

asyncio.run(main())

This code prints 'Hello', waits for 1 second, and then prints 'World'.

What are the benefits of using async/await?

The main benefits are improved performance and responsiveness, especially in I/O-bound applications. It allows your program to handle multiple tasks concurrently without waiting for each to finish.