Which Python data structure would you use to create a list that cannot be modified?

Which Python data structure would you use to create a list that cannot be modified?

• A. Array
• B. List
• C. Tuple
• D. Set

Answer: (C)

A tuple is the correct choice for creating a list that cannot be modified in Python. Tuples are immutable data structures, meaning that once they are created, their content cannot be changed. This immutability makes tuples useful for representing fixed collections of items, where the integrity of the data must be maintained throughout the program's execution. In contrast, lists are mutable, allowing for modification such as adding, removing, or altering elements after they have been created. Arrays in Python (typically also mutable) are typically part of libraries like NumPy and are designed for efficient arithmetic operations on numerical data but do not inherently have immutability. Sets are unordered collections of unique items and are also mutable, which means their contents can be changed. Thus, when the goal is to have a collection of items that cannot be altered once defined, tuples are the appropriate choice due to this characteristic of immutability.

A tuple is the correct choice for creating a list that cannot be modified in Python. Tuples are immutable data structures, meaning that once they are created, their content cannot be changed. This immutability makes tuples useful for representing fixed collections of items, where the integrity of the data must be maintained throughout the program's execution.

In contrast, lists are mutable, allowing for modification such as adding, removing, or altering elements after they have been created. Arrays in Python (typically also mutable) are typically part of libraries like NumPy and are designed for efficient arithmetic operations on numerical data but do not inherently have immutability. Sets are unordered collections of unique items and are also mutable, which means their contents can be changed.

Thus, when the goal is to have a collection of items that cannot be altered once defined, tuples are the appropriate choice due to this characteristic of immutability.