Python Reference Manual

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5.1 Arithmetic conversions

When a description of an arithmetic operator below uses the phrase ``the numeric arguments are converted to a common type,'' the arguments are coerced using the coercion rules listed at the end of chapter 3. If both arguments are standard numeric types, the following coercions are applied:

• If either argument is a complex number, the other is converted to complex;
• otherwise, if either argument is a floating point number, the other is converted to floating point;
• otherwise, if either argument is a long integer, the other is converted to long integer;
• otherwise, both must be plain integers and no conversion is necessary.

Some additional rules apply for certain operators (e.g., a string left argument to the `%' operator). Extensions can define their own coercions.

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Python Reference Manual

Next: 5.2 Atoms Up: 5. Expressions Previous: 5. Expressions