What are python namespaces?

Answer 1

In Python, a namespace is a system that organizes and manages the names (identifiers) used in a program. It serves as a container that keeps track of the mappings between names and the objects they refer to. Namespaces help prevent naming conflicts and provide a way to access and manage variables, functions, classes, modules, and other objects within a program.

Here are a few key points about Python namespaces:

1. Namespace Hierarchy: Namespaces are organized in a hierarchical structure known as the namespace hierarchy. At the top level, there is the built-in namespace that contains Python's built-in functions and types. Below it, there are global namespaces for each module or script, and within each module, there can be nested local namespaces for functions or classes.

2. Scope: Each namespace has a specific scope, which defines the visibility and lifetime of the names within it. The scope determines where a particular name can be accessed or referenced in the code. Names can be either local to a specific function or class, or they can be global, visible throughout the module or script.

3. Name Resolution: When a name is referenced in Python, the interpreter looks for that name within the available namespaces following a specific order called the "LEGB" rule. It checks the Local namespace first, then the Enclosing (nested) namespaces, followed by the Global namespace, and finally the Built-in namespace. This order determines which object a name refers to, and if the name is not found in any of the namespaces, a NameError is raised.

4. Creating and Modifying Namespaces: Namespaces are created implicitly as you define variables, functions, classes, or import modules. You can also create namespaces explicitly using the `namespace` or `dict` objects.

By organizing names into separate namespaces, Python provides a structured and manageable approach to name resolution and prevents naming conflicts, allowing for more organized and modular code. Understanding namespaces is essential for writing and maintaining Python programs effectively.