Python 3 – Number seed() Method

Python programming language is well known for its dynamic nature, simplicity, and ease of learning by beginners. One of the essential features of Python is its built-in functions that help to execute various actions. Among these built-in functions is the ‘seed’ method that is used to initialize a random number generator. The ‘seed’ function takes one parameter, and it is used to set the initial value of the random number generator. In this article, we will delve further into the ‘seed’ method in Python.

Syntax of the seed() Method

Python’s ‘seed’ method is an enjoyable and straightforward method to use. It only takes one parameter – an integer value that serves as the seed value. The syntax for the seed method is as follows:

import random

random.seed(a=None, version=2)

Here’s a breakdown of the above syntax.

The ‘a’ parameter – This parameter is optional, and it’s the seed value. If it is not included, then the current time is taken as the seed value.

The ‘version’ parameter – The version parameter is optional and is set to 2 by default. The version parameter is used to specify the algorithm used to generate a random number.

Sample code

Now, let’s look at some sample code that demonstrates the use of the ‘seed’ method.

import random

# Generate a random number
print(random.random())

# Set the seed value
random.seed(2)

# Regenerate the random number
print(random.random())

In the above code, we begin by importing the random module. Then, we generate a random number using the random method.

Next, we set the seed value using the seed method with the value of 2. Finally, we regenerate the random number using the random() method. The result is the same random number before the seed value was set.

Random Number Generator Using seed()

Now that we know how to set the seed value for a random number generator let’s explore how to generate random numbers using the seed() method.

import random

# Set seed value
random.seed(10)

# Generate random number using seed value
print(random.random())

random.seed(10)

print(random.random())

In the above code, we begin by importing the random module. Then, we set the seed value using the seed method with the value of 10. Finally, we generate a random number using the random() method.

We then set the seed value again to 10 and generate another random number. The result will be the same random number as the previous output.

It is essential to note that a random number generator uses a mathematical formula to generate random numbers. By setting the seed value, we reset the formula’s starting point, hence generating the same sequence of numbers each time the same seed value is used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ‘seed’ method in Python programming language is essential and simple to use. It is used to initialize random number generators, and it only takes one parameter – the seed value. We have looked at the syntax of the ‘seed’ method, as well as how to generate random numbers using the random() method. By setting the seed value, we can generate the same sequence of random numbers each time. This feature is particularly useful in applications where we require fixed or repeatable results.