What is mutability in Python collections?

What is mutability in Python collections?

Mutability refers to the ability of an object to be changed after it is created. In Python, collections like lists and dictionaries are mutable, meaning you can modify them.

Can you give me examples of mutable and immutable collections?

Sure! Mutable collections include lists and dictionaries, while immutable collections include tuples and strings.

How does mutability affect performance in Python?

Mutability can affect performance because mutable objects can be modified in place, which can be more efficient than creating new objects. However, it can also lead to unintended side effects if not managed properly.

What are some common pitfalls with mutable collections?

Common pitfalls include accidental modifications, shared references leading to unexpected changes, and issues with hashability in sets and dictionaries.