Here are some key features of Python:
- Interpreted Language: That means that, unlike languages like C and its variants, Python does not need to be compiled before it is run. Other interpreted languages include PHP and Ruby.
- Dynamically Typed: This means that you don’t need to state the types of variables when you declare them or anything like that. You can do things like x = 10 and then x= "This is a String" without error.
- Object Oriented Language: Python is well suited to object orientated programming in that it allows the definition of classes along with composition and inheritance. Python does not have access specifiers (like C++'s public, private).
- Cross-Platform: Python is a cross-platform language which means that a Python program written on a Windows system will also run on a Linux system with little or no modifications at all.
- First-Class Object: In Python, functions are first-class objects. This means that they can be assigned to variables, returned from other functions and passed into functions. Classes are also first class objects.
- General Purpose Language: Python finds use in many spheres – web applications, automation, scientific modeling, big data applications and many more. It's also often used as "glue" code to get other languages and components to play nice.
- Garbage Collection: It support automatic Garbage collection.
- Integration with Other Languages: It can be easily integrated with C, C++, COM, ActiveX, CORBA, and Java.
- Open Source: Python Software Foundation Licence.
- Community: Large Community.