In Python, what does a 'float' represent?

In Python, a 'float' represents a decimal number. Floats are utilized for representing real numbers, which can include fractions and decimals, allowing for mathematical operations that involve non-integer values. For example, a float can represent numbers like 3.14, -0.001, or 2.0, which are essential in calculations requiring precision, such as scientific computations or financial applications. Understanding the float data type is crucial for developers, as it allows them to work with a broader range of numerical values compared to whole numbers (integers).