What are the differences between Python iterators and lists?

What are the differences between Python iterators and lists?

Python iterators are objects that allow you to traverse through a collection, while lists are a type of collection that stores multiple items. Iterators use less memory as they generate items on the fly, whereas lists store all items in memory.

Can you give me an example of how to use an iterator?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

my_list = [1, 2, 3]
my_iterator = iter(my_list)

print(next(my_iterator))  # Output: 1
print(next(my_iterator))  # Output: 2

This code creates an iterator from a list and retrieves items one by one.

What are the advantages of using iterators over lists?

Iterators are more memory efficient since they yield items one at a time and do not require the entire collection to be stored in memory. They also allow for lazy evaluation, which can improve performance in certain scenarios.

Are there any situations where I should prefer lists?

Yes, if you need to access elements by index or require random access, lists are more suitable. They also provide more built-in methods for manipulation.