What is the difference between RLock and Lock in Python?

What is the difference between RLock and Lock in Python?

In Python, a Lock is a synchronization primitive that allows only one thread to access a resource at a time. An RLock, or reentrant lock, allows a thread to acquire the lock multiple times without causing a deadlock.

Can you give me an example of when to use RLock?

Sure! Use RLock when a thread needs to acquire the same lock multiple times, such as in recursive functions or when calling functions that require the same lock.

What happens if I try to acquire a Lock that I already hold?

If you try to acquire a Lock that you already hold, it will block the thread until the lock is released. This can lead to a deadlock if not managed properly.

Are there performance differences between RLock and Lock?

Yes, RLock has a slight overhead due to its ability to track the number of acquisitions by a thread, making it less performant than a simple Lock when reentrancy is not needed.