How do C and Python compare in terms of performance?

How do C and Python compare in terms of performance?

C is generally faster than Python because it is a compiled language, while Python is interpreted. This means C code is translated directly into machine code, which the CPU can execute directly, whereas Python code is executed by an interpreter, adding overhead.

What factors contribute to the performance differences?

Several factors contribute, including execution speed, memory management, and the efficiency of libraries. C allows for low-level memory manipulation, which can lead to faster execution, while Python's high-level abstractions can introduce overhead.

Are there specific use cases where one is preferred over the other?

Yes, C is often preferred for system-level programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. Python is favored for rapid development, data analysis, and applications where ease of use is more important than raw performance.

Can you provide examples of projects that use each language?

Sure! C is commonly used in operating systems like Linux and embedded systems. Python is widely used in web development frameworks like Django and data science libraries like Pandas.