Question

If a function has a local variable with the same name as a global variable, only the _____________ variable can be seen by the function.

Short answer

Answer: The function can only "see" the local variable when a local variable with the same name as a global variable exists. The local variable takes precedence over the global variable inside the function.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Local and Global Variables

Local variables are the variables that are defined inside a function, while global variables are the variables that are defined outside any function. The scope of a local variable is limited to the function it is defined in, whereas a global variable is accessible anywhere in the code.

Give an Example

Let's illustate this with a simple example. Suppose we have a global variable named 'x' and a function named 'my_function' which also has a local variable named 'x'. Here's what the code might look like: x = 10 # Global variable 'x' def my_function(): x = 5 # Local variable 'x' print(x)

Determine Which Variable the Function Can See

When we call the function 'my_function', it will print the value of the local variable 'x', which is 5. The local variable 'x' takes precedence over the global variable 'x' inside the function. This means that the function can only "see" the local variable when a local variable with the same name as a global variable exists.

Summarize the Answer

In conclusion, when a local variable with the same name as a global variable exists within a function, only the local variable can be seen by the function. The local variable takes precedence over the global variable inside the function.