Python's extend() Method
Python's extend() method serves as a powerful tool for incorporating multiple elements into an existing list. The methodology behind its application is quite straightforward:
list1.extend(list2)
In this context, "list1" represents your current list, while "list2" is the list you intend to merge into the former, extending its length.
Here's a practical demonstration to shed more light on the concept.
Firstly, instantiate two lists, represented by the variables "list1" and "list2".
list1 = ['a', 'b', 'c']
list2 = ['d', 'e', 'f']
Subsequently, employ the extend() method to expand "list1", effectively appending all elements of "list2" to its end.
list1.extend(list2)
To visualize the result, print the contents of "list1".
print(list1)
Your initial list now incorporates the elements of the second list, achieving the desired extension.
['a', 'b', 'c', 'd', 'e', 'f'].
This example illustrates how one can seamlessly append the elements of one list to another.
Extend() vs Append(). An interesting point to ponder is the distinction between extend() and append(). While extend() introduces individual elements to a list, append() attaches an entire object at the list's end. Take for instance the initial lists:
list1 = ['a', 'b', 'c']
list2 = ['d', 'e', 'f']
If we use the append() method for concatenation
lista1.append(lista2)
the resultant content of "list1" differs significantly.
['a', 'b', 'c', ['d', 'e', 'f']].
Noticeably, the second list is appended as a single entity to the end of the first list. In essence, extend() is preferable when you wish to incorporate individual elements from another list, while append() is your go-to when the goal is to add an entire object.
