In Python, a variable is just a label or reference to the object in the memory. Hence, the assignment "lst1 = lst" refers to the same list object in the memory. Take a look at the following example −
It will produce the following output −
lst: [10, 20] id(lst): 1677677188288 lst1: [10, 20] id(lst1): 1677677188288
As a result, if we update "lst", it will automatically reflect in "lst1". Change lst[0] to 100
It will produce the following output −
lst: [100, 20] id(lst): 1677677188288 lst1: [100, 20] id(lst1): 1677677188288
Hence, we can say that "lst1" is not the physical copy of "lst".
Using the Copy Method of List Class
Python's list class has a copy() method to create a new physical copy of a list object.
Syntax
The new list object will have a different id() value. The following example demonstrates this −
It will produce the following output −
lst: [10, 20] id(lst): 1677678705472 lst1: [10, 20] id(lst1): 1677678706304
Even if the two lists have same data, they have different id() value, hence they are two different objects and "lst1" is a copy of "lst".
If we try to modify "lst", it will not reflect in "lst1". See the following example −
It will produce the following output −
lst: [100, 20] id(lst): 1677678705472 lst1: [10, 20] id(lst1): 1677678706304
The End! should you have any inquiries, we encourage you to reach out to the Vercaa Support Center without hesitation.
