Python Tuples: The Immutable Alternative to Lists

What Is a Tuple?

A tuple is an ordered, immutable collection. Once created, you cannot change, add, or remove elements.

point = (3, 4)
rgb = (255, 128, 0)
empty = ()
single = (7,)   # trailing comma for single-element tuples

Accessing Elements

x, y = point   # unpacking
print(point[0])

When to Use a Tuple

• Fixed groups of related values (coordinates, RGB, database rows).
• Dictionary keys (lists cannot be keys — tuples can).
• Returning multiple values from a function.
• Data that must not be modified accidentally.

Multiple Return Values

def min_max(nums):
    return min(nums), max(nums)  # returns a tuple

low, high = min_max([3, 1, 4, 1, 5])

Tuple Methods

t = (1, 2, 2, 3)
print(t.count(2))   # 2
print(t.index(3))   # 3