Introduction to Python for Chemical Engineers
Aman Aggarwal · 2023
Python is a high-level general-purpose programming language designed by Guido van Rossum in the 1980s.Some of the characteristics of Python that make it such a popular programming language are simplicity, versatility, cross-platform, open-source, free software, large unique library, and exceptional handling capacity.Simplicity: Python has been ranked among the top two most popular programming languages for by IEEE Spectrum in 2021 and 2022 [1].Because of its user-friendliness, English language parallels, and adaptability, Python aids new programmers in mastering the concepts of programming in a simple manner.Engineers new to programming can easily learn the syntaxes of the language without having to learn complex syntaxes like the ones used for programs such as C++, Java, and PHP.Versatility: Over the past decades, Python has emerged to be one of the most diverse programming languages, which can be used for software development, operations, visualization, data analytics, finance, design, machine learning, artificial intelligence, etc.In chemical engineering, Python has a broad array of applications, like soft-sensor development, data analytics and visualization, operations, process optimization, simulation, process design, automatic calculation, and anomaly detection.Cross-platform: Python programs can run across different operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux.Some operating systems like Mac and Linux, come with preinstalled versions of Python.While, for operating system like Windows, one can easily install Python and a graphical interface if needed.Open-source: Python is publicly accessible with open-source license.Anyone can see, modify, and distribute the code, even for commercial use.Free software: All the versions of Python, including the latest version, can be installed for free on multiple devices for all operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux, Other).Large unique library: One of the reasons for the popularity of Python is its huge collection of libraries, which is increasing exponentially as its simplicity attracts Integrated Process Modeling, Advanced Control and Data Analytics for Optimizing Polyolefin Manufacturing, First Edition.Y. A.