Python Scope
Scope refers to the areas where variables are visible and accessible. Variables that can be accessed anywhere in a Python program are in the global scope. Conversely, variables that are defined within the body of structures like classes and methods exist only in the local scope.
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Local Scope
Suppose a variable is initialized within a function. This variable can only be used within that function and not from outside the function.
defmy_function():x =200print(x)my_function()Copy to clipboardCopy to clipboard
Nested Functions and Local Scope
In the example below, a variable x is defined within the local scope of the outer_function() function, followed by a defined inner_function() function. Since inner_function() exists within the local scope of outer_function(), x can be accessed and printed within inner_function():
defouter_function():x =200# Initialized in outer functiondefinner_function():print(x)inner_function()outer_function()# Output: 200Copy to clipboardCopy to clipboard
Global Scope
A variable initialized in the main body is defined as a global variable and can be used anywhere in the code, including nested blocks, loops, etc. This is because these variables exist in the global scope of the code.
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