Minimum of two numbers in Python

In this article, we will explore various methods to find minimum of two numbers in Python. The simplest way to find minimum of two numbers in Python is by using built-in min() function.

a = 7
b = 3
print(min(a, b))

3

Explanation:

• min() function compares the two numbers a and b.
• So, it returns 3 as the smaller value

Let’s explore other different method to find minimum of two numbers:

Using Conditional Statements

Another way to find the minimum of two numbers is by using conditional statements like if and else. This approach gives us more control over the logic and is useful when we need to implement custom rules.

a = 5
b = 10

if a < b:
    print(a)
else:
    print(b)

5

Explanation:

• The if statement checks whether a is greater than b.
• If the condition is true then it prints a otherwise it prints b.
• Since b is greater so, it prints 5.

Using Ternary Operator

Python also supports a shorthand version of conditional statements known as the ternary operator. It allows us to write concise conditional expressions on a single line.

a = 7
b = 2
res = a if a < b else b
print(res)

2

Explanation:

• The ternary operator evaluates the condition a > b.
• If true then it returns a, otherwise it returns b.
• Here, since a is greater so the result is 2.