What is the difference between iterators and generators?

Can you explain the difference between iterators and generators?

Sure! Iterators are objects that implement the iterator protocol, allowing you to traverse through a collection. Generators, on the other hand, are a simpler way to create iterators using a function that yields values.

What does it mean to 'yield' a value?

'Yield' is a keyword in Python that allows a function to return a value and pause its execution, resuming later. This makes generators memory efficient.

Can you give me an example of an iterator and a generator?

Absolutely! An iterator could be a list object with an __iter__() method, while a generator could be a function using yield to produce a sequence of numbers.

When should I use a generator instead of an iterator?

Use a generator when you want to simplify your code and save memory, especially for large datasets, as they generate items on-the-fly.