How does a tuple differ from a list in Python?

A tuple differs from a list in Python primarily in terms of mutability, which refers to the ability to change the contents of the data structure after it has been created. A tuple is immutable, meaning that once it is defined, its contents cannot be altered; you cannot add, remove, or change elements within that tuple. This characteristic of immutability makes tuples useful for scenarios where a constant set of values is needed, such as storing fixed configuration values or returning multiple values from functions.

Conversely, a list is mutable, allowing for dynamic alterations such as appending new elements, modifying existing elements, or removing elements altogether. This flexibility makes lists suitable for scenarios where you need to manage a collection of items that may change over time.

Understanding this key difference is fundamental in choosing the appropriate data structure depending on the intended use case, particularly in terms of performance implications and the types of operations that can be efficiently performed.