In Python, what is the key characteristic of a positional argument?

In Python, what is the key characteristic of a positional argument?

• A. It is defined by its name.
• B. Its position in the function call must match the function definition.
• C. It must be passed as a list.
• D. It can only be used in functions without keyword arguments.

Answer: (B)

A positional argument in Python is distinguished by its requirement that the order in which it is provided during a function call corresponds precisely to the order in which the parameters are defined in the function's signature. This means that the first argument goes to the first parameter, the second argument goes to the second parameter, and so forth. This characteristic emphasizes the importance of the sequence, as failure to adhere to this order can lead to unintended behaviors or errors in code execution. Consequently, the clarity of how arguments are associated with parameters is based on their positions rather than their names or the specific data structures they are passed in. The other options do not accurately describe positional arguments: defining by name refers to keyword arguments, passing as a list pertains to how arguments can be structured but does not limit positional arguments, and the use of keyword arguments with functions is not restricted in any manner by the use of positional arguments.

A positional argument in Python is distinguished by its requirement that the order in which it is provided during a function call corresponds precisely to the order in which the parameters are defined in the function's signature. This means that the first argument goes to the first parameter, the second argument goes to the second parameter, and so forth.

This characteristic emphasizes the importance of the sequence, as failure to adhere to this order can lead to unintended behaviors or errors in code execution. Consequently, the clarity of how arguments are associated with parameters is based on their positions rather than their names or the specific data structures they are passed in.

The other options do not accurately describe positional arguments: defining by name refers to keyword arguments, passing as a list pertains to how arguments can be structured but does not limit positional arguments, and the use of keyword arguments with functions is not restricted in any manner by the use of positional arguments.