Python’s time Module
The time module in Python provides functions for getting the current time, converting between different time representations, and performing calculations related to time.
Core Functions
time.time(): Returns the current time as a floating-point number representing seconds since the epoch (January 1, 1970, 00:00:00 UTC).time.localtime(): Converts a time expressed in seconds since the epoch to a struct_time object representing local time.time.gmtime(): Converts a time expressed in seconds since the epoch to a struct_time object representing UTC time.time.asctime(tuple): Converts a struct_time tuple to a string.time.sleep(seconds): Suspends execution of the current thread for the given number of seconds.
Struct_time
The struct_time object is a tuple with nine elements representing year, month, day, hour, minute, second, day of the week, day of the year, and daylight saving time flag.
Example
Python
import time
# Get current time in seconds since epoch
current_time = time.time()
print(current_time)
# Convert to local time
local_time = time.localtime(current_time)
print(local_time)
# Format the time
formatted_time = time.strftime("%Y-%m-%d %H:%M:%S", local_time)
print(formatted_time)
Limitations of the time Module
While the time module provides basic time-related functionalities, it lacks features like time zones, microsecond precision, and complex date and time calculations. For more advanced operations, consider using the datetime module.
What is the time module in Python?
It provides functions for working with time-related values.
What is the epoch?
The base time from which Python measures time, typically January 1, 1970, 00:00:00 UTC.
What is a struct_time object?
A tuple representing a local time with nine items.
What does time.time() return?
The current time in seconds since the epoch as a float.
What does time.localtime() do?
Converts seconds since the epoch to a local time struct_time object.
How can I improve time accuracy?
Use time.perf_counter() for precise timing measurements.
Should I use time.sleep() for accurate timing?
Consider using time.perf_counter() for more precise timing.