The difference between import math
and from math import *
in Python lies in how they bring the module's functions and variables into your namespace:
-
import math
:- This imports the entire
math
module. - You need to prefix the functions with
math.
when using them. - Example:
import math result = math.sqrt(16) print(result) # Output: 4.0
- This imports the entire
-
from math import *
:- This imports all functions and variables from the
math
module directly into your current namespace. - You can use the functions without the
math.
prefix. - Example:
from math import * result = sqrt(16) print(result) # Output: 4.0
- This imports all functions and variables from the
Key Differences:
- Namespace Pollution:
from math import *
can lead to namespace pollution, where functions or variables from themath
module might overwrite existing ones in your code, or vice versa². - Readability:
import math
makes it clear which module a function comes from, improving code readability and maintainability³.
For these reasons, it's generally recommended to use import math
or selectively import only the needed functions, like from math import sqrt
⁴.
If you have more questions about Python or anything else, feel free to ask!
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 21/7/2024 (1) python - Difference between "import X" and "from X import *"? - Stack .... https://stackoverflow.com/questions/12270954/difference-between-import-x-and-from-x-import. (2) ‘import’ vs ‘from import’ in Python — What’s The Difference?. https://www.codingem.com/python-difference-between-import-and-from-import/. (3) Understanding Python Import Statements: - pythontwist.com. https://pythontwist.com/understanding-python-import-statements-from-import-vs-import. (4) python - Difference between import math and from math import - Stack .... https://stackoverflow.com/questions/64164361/difference-between-import-math-and-from-math-import.