Concurrent and Parallel Programming in Python - Introduction to Writing Asynchronous Programs

The video tutorial introduces asynchronous programming in Python, focusing on how to write and execute asynchronous functions using the asyncio library. It explains the concept of event loops and futures, and demonstrates how to run asynchronous code with asyncio.run. The tutorial also covers practical examples and common errors encountered in asynchronous programming.

What is a key difference between asynchronous programming and threading?

• Threading is faster than asynchronous programming.

• Asynchronous programming uses a single thread and process.

• Threading uses a single process.

• Asynchronous programming uses multiple threads.

Why is it recommended to use Python version 3.7 or later for asynchronous programming?

• Later versions are slower but more reliable.

• Python 3.7 is the only version that supports asyncio.

• The asynchronous library has stabilized in later versions.

• Older versions do not support async functions.

Which keyword is used to define an asynchronous function in Python?

• def

• asyncio

• async

• await

What is the purpose of an event loop in asynchronous programming?

• To execute functions sequentially.

• To create multiple threads.

• To block the execution of code.

• To manage and schedule asynchronous tasks.

What is a 'future' in the context of asynchronous programming?

• A method to stop the event loop.

• A type of thread.

• A placeholder for a result that is not yet available.

• A completed task.

How can you start the event loop to run an asynchronous function?

• By calling the function directly.

• Using the 'asyncio.run' method.

• By using 'await' outside a function.

• By importing the 'threading' module.

Why can't you have multiple 'asyncio.run' calls in a single thread?

• It will create multiple event loops.

• It is not supported by Python.

• It will block the execution of other functions.

• Only one event loop can run per thread.

What does the 'await' keyword do in an asynchronous function?

• Blocks the execution of the program.

• Stops the event loop.

• Creates a new thread.

• Allows other coroutines to run while waiting.

What happens if you try to use 'await' outside of an async function?

• The function will execute synchronously.

• An error will occur.

• It will create a new coroutine.

• The program will run normally.

How can you return a value from an asynchronous function?

• Using 'return' as in regular functions.

• Using 'yield'.

• By printing the value.

• Using 'async return'.