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Python Virtual Machine

In this tutorial, we will explore the basics of the Python virtual machine and its importance in executing Python code. Python, a high-level programming language, is known for its simplicity and ease of use.

What is Python Virtual Machine?

Python code is executed by a virtual machine, known as the Python Virtual Machine (PVM).

The Python Virtual Machine (PVM) is an integral part of the Python interpreter that executes Python bytecode. The Python Virtual Machine is the runtime engine of the Python programming language. It is responsible for interpreting and executing Python code.

Python Virtual Machine

A PVM is created for each new architecture. This component is installed when we download and install Python. The PVM is software that emulates a physical computer. It operates as a stack-based virtual machine. It manipulates several stacks to perform its operations when executing Python bytecode, it uses a stack to manage function calls, variable storage, and operations.

Programs are written using the Python IDE. The source code files are converted into byte code instructions by the compiler. Bytecode instructions are platform-independent.

When you run a Python script, the Python compiler translates the high-level Python code into bytecode. This bytecode is platform-independent and stored in .pyc files.

They remain the same irrespective of the machine architecture. The PVM interprets the bytecode instructions and executes them. The PVM takes this bytecode and interprets it. It uses a stack-based architecture, which means it processes operations by pushing and popping values to and from a stack.

The PVM also includes a garbage collector that automatically manages memory by reclaiming memory that is no longer in use, helping to prevent memory leaks.