Arithmetic Operators

3 min read ·

Arithmetic operators in Python are used to perform mathematical calculations. They work with numeric data types such as int, float, and complex.
These operators are fundamental and used in almost every Python program.

What Are Arithmetic Operators?

Arithmetic operators perform basic math operations between two operands.

Types of Arithmetic Operators

OperatorNameDescription
+AdditionAdds two values
-SubtractionSubtracts second value from first
*MultiplicationMultiplies two values
/DivisionDivides two values
%ModulusReturns remainder
**ExponentiationPower operation
//Floor DivisionReturns quotient without decimals

Addition (+)

Adds two numbers.

Subtraction (-)

Subtracts one number from another.

Multiplication (*)

Multiplies two numbers.

Division (/)

Always returns a float value, even if the division is exact.

Modulus (%)

Returns the remainder of a division.

Exponentiation (**)

Raises a number to the power of another.

Floor Division (//)

Returns the integer part of the division result.
Important

Floor division rounds down to the nearest whole number.


Arithmetic Operators with Variables


Arithmetic Operators with Negative Numbers


Operator Precedence in Arithmetic

Python follows BODMAS/PEMDAS rule.

Tricky Arithmetic Examples (Interview)


Common Mistakes

Expecting Integer Result from /

Correct Way


Practice

  • Perform all arithmetic operations on two numbers
  • Find square root using exponentiation
  • Predict output of negative floor division
  • Solve expressions using operator precedence