Info Node: (python2.1-ref.info)Arithmetic conversions
(python2.1-ref.info)Arithmetic conversions
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.