open() function:
The open() function is used to open files in Python. It takes two arguments: the filename (including the path) and the mode in which we want to open the file.

The second argument to open() specifies the mode for opening the file. Common modes include: "r", "w", "a", "b". We have already discussed the modes in the previous blog Python File IO Basic.

Example for opening a file for reading and using the read() function:

fileOpen = open("file.txt", "r")
content = fileOpen.read()
print(content)

It's recommended to use the with statement with open(). It ensures that the file is automatically closed when we're done, improving resource management and preventing memory leaks. The open() function is a fundamental tool for file I/O in Python. It allows us to work with files in different modes, read and write data, and ensures proper resource management through the with statement.

close() function:
In Python, after opening a file using the open() function, it's essential to close the file when you're done using it. This is done using the close() method of the file object.

The close() method is called on a file object, and it releases system resources associated with the file. Once a file is closed, you can't read from or write to it any longer.

Example for opening a file for reading and using the close() function

file = open("example.txt", "r")
content = file.read()
file.close()

Closing files is an important practice in Python to ensure resource efficiency, data integrity, and access to files by other processes. It's a best practice to use the with statement, as it automatically closes the file, even in the event of an exception, making file handling more reliable.

Importance of Closing Files After Opening:

• Resource Management
  Closing files after using them is crucial for efficient resource management. Open files consume system resources, and failing to close them may lead to resource leaks.
• Preventing Loss of Data
  When writing to a file, closing it ensures that all the data is properly flushed and saved. Without closing, data may not be written completely, potentially leading to data loss.
• Avoiding File Locks
  Some operating systems may lock files that are open, preventing other processes or users from accessing them. Closing the file releases the lock, allowing other operations.

# open and closing functions with commands

# fileCon = open("file.txt", "rt") # in read mode - by default
#fileCon = open("file.txt", "rb") # in binary - by default

#print(fileCon.read())  # using read function

f = open("file.txt", "rt")
content = f.read()
print(content)
f.close()