2. What is NumPy?#
NumPy is the fundamental package for scientific computing in Python.
It is a Python library that provides a multidimensional array object, various derived objects (such as masked arrays and matrices), and an assortment of routines for fast operations on arrays, including mathematical, logical, shape manipulation, sorting, selecting, I/O, discrete Fourier transforms, basic linear algebra, basic statistical operations, random simulation and much more.
NumPy features/capabilities
POWERFUL N-DIMENSIONAL ARRAYS: A fast and efficient DataFrame object for data manipulation with integrated indexing;
NUMERICAL COMPUTING TOOLS: NumPy offers comprehensive mathematical functions, random number generators, linear algebra routines, Fourier transforms, and more.
INTEROPERABLE: NumPy supports a wide range of hardware and computing platforms, and plays well with distributed, GPU, and sparse array libraries.
PERFORMANT: The core of NumPy is well-optimized C code. Enjoy the flexibility of Python with the speed of compiled code.
EASY TO USE: NumPy’s high level syntax makes it accessible and productive for programmers from any background or experience level.
OPEN SOURCE: Distributed under a liberal BSD license, NumPy is developed and maintained publicly on GitHub by a vibrant, responsive, and diverse community.