What are the main differences between a list and a tuple in Python?

In Python, the key distinction between a list and a tuple lies in their mutability. Lists are considered mutable, meaning they can be modified after creation. This includes the ability to add, remove, or change items within the list. This flexibility makes lists suitable for scenarios where you need to maintain a collection of items that may change over time.

On the other hand, tuples are immutable. Once a tuple is created, the elements within it cannot be altered, added to, or removed. This immutability provides certain advantages, such as improved performance for certain operations and increased safety, as tuples can be used as keys in dictionaries or elements of sets, where unique and unchangeable values are necessary.

Understanding this difference is crucial when deciding which data structure to use in your programming tasks. If you need a collection of items that may change, a list would be appropriate. If you require a fixed collection, a tuple is the ideal choice.