What are the differences between dict and mappingproxytype in Python?

Can you explain the differences between dict and mappingproxytype in Python?

Sure! In Python, a dict is a mutable data structure that allows you to store key-value pairs, while mappingproxytype is a read-only view of a dictionary.

What does it mean that mappingproxytype is read-only?

It means you cannot modify the contents of a mappingproxytype. You can only access the data, but you can't add or change key-value pairs.

When would I use mappingproxytype instead of a dict?

You would use mappingproxytype when you want to provide a read-only view of a dictionary, ensuring that the original dictionary cannot be altered.

Can you give an example of how to create a mappingproxytype?

Certainly! You can create a mappingproxytype by using the types module: from types import MappingProxyType; my_dict = {'a': 1}; my_proxy = MappingProxyType(my_dict).