How does memory management work in Python extensions?

How does memory management work in Python extensions?

Memory management in Python extensions involves using the Python C API to allocate and deallocate memory. It ensures that memory is managed efficiently to prevent leaks and optimize performance.

What are the common pitfalls in memory management for Python extensions?

Common pitfalls include memory leaks, not releasing memory properly, and using Python objects incorrectly in C code. It's crucial to follow best practices to avoid these issues.

Can you explain how reference counting works?

Reference counting is a memory management technique where each object keeps track of the number of references pointing to it. When the count drops to zero, the memory can be safely deallocated.

What tools can I use to debug memory issues in Python extensions?

You can use tools like Valgrind, AddressSanitizer, and Python's built-in memory profiling tools to debug memory issues in Python extensions.