Explore the following insightful interview questions to evaluate Python developers' knowledge and skills.
1.
What is the difference between lists and tuples in Python?
Lists are mutable data structures in Python that allow for modifications after creation. Tuples, on the other hand, are immutable and cannot be changed once created. Lists tend to perform slower than tuples, and they consume more memory due to their mutable nature. Tuples are faster and consume less memory, making them suitable for situations where data should remain unchanged. In summary, lists are versatile but have some performance overhead, while tuples provide more efficiency and immutability.
2.
How does Laravel's query builder protect against SQL injection attacks?
Laravel's query builder employs PDO parameter binding to prevent SQL injection. This binding automatically escapes user input, making it safe for database queries. Using parameter binding, developers can pass input as placeholders, eliminating the need for manual sanitation and offering robust security against malicious SQL injection attempts.
3.
Differentiate between local, global, and built-in namespaces in Python.
Local namespaces exist within a function's scope, holding variables specific to that function. Global namespaces encompass the entire script and hold variables accessible throughout the script. Built-in namespaces contain Python's core functions and objects available in every script. Understanding these namespaces is crucial for avoiding naming conflicts and managing variable scope.
4.
Explain the purpose of PEP 8 in Python.
PEP 8, or Python Enhancement Proposal 8, outlines coding style guidelines to ensure consistent and readable Python code. It promotes uniformity across projects, improving code collaboration and maintenance. Adhering to PEP 8 standards enhances code readability, crucial for teamwork and project scalability.
5.
Explain how memory management works in Python.
Python employs automatic memory management through a technique called garbage collection. The Python interpreter keeps track of objects in memory and determines which objects are no longer referenced by the program. These unreferenced objects are identified as garbage and are automatically removed from memory to free up space. Python's memory manager also handles issues like memory fragmentation and cyclic references. Overall, automatic memory management simplifies the development process by eliminating the need for manual memory allocation and deallocation.
6.
What are decorators in Python? Provide an example.
Decorators are functions that modify or enhance other functions without altering their core structure. They often enhance code reusability and readability. For example, the ‘@staticmethod’ decorator converts a method into a static one, eliminating the need for the ‘self’ argument. Decorators allow developers to add functionalities like logging, authentication, or caching to functions without modifying their original implementation.