Can you explain the property decorator in Python?

Can you explain the property decorator in Python?

Sure! The property decorator in Python is used to define methods in a class that can be accessed like attributes. It allows you to manage the access to an attribute by defining getter, setter, and deleter methods.

How do I use the property decorator in a class?

You can use it by defining a method and then applying the @property decorator above it. For example:

class MyClass:
    def __init__(self, value):
        self._value = value

    @property
    def value(self):
        return self._value

    @value.setter
    def value(self, new_value):
        self._value = new_value

What are the benefits of using the property decorator?

The benefits include encapsulation, validation of data before setting it, and the ability to change the internal implementation without affecting the external interface.

Can you give an example of a property with validation?

Certainly! Here's an example:

class Age:
    def __init__(self, age):
        self._age = age

    @property
    def age(self):
        return self._age

    @age.setter
    def age(self, value):
        if value < 0:
            raise ValueError('Age cannot be negative')
        self._age = value