What is the difference between return and yield in Python?

What is the difference between return and yield in Python?

In Python, 'return' sends a value back to the caller and exits the function, while 'yield' allows the function to return a value and pause its state, resuming later.

Can you give me an example of how yield works?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

def count_up_to(n):
    count = 1
    while count <= n:
        yield count
        count += 1

This function will yield numbers from 1 to n one at a time.

How does using yield affect memory usage?

Using 'yield' is more memory efficient than 'return' because it generates values one at a time and doesn't store the entire list in memory.

When should I use return instead of yield?

Use 'return' when you need to send a single value back and exit the function. Use 'yield' when you want to produce a series of values over time.