In Python, what symbol is used to denote comments?

In Python, the hash symbol (#) is used to denote comments. When the interpreter encounters this symbol, it ignores everything that follows it on that line. This allows developers to add notes, explanations, or other textual information in the code that do not affect how the program runs. Comments are crucial for making code more understandable and maintainable, especially in complex projects where multiple people may be collaborating or when the original author revisits the code after some time.

For example, if you have a line of code that performs a calculation, you might include a comment to explain what that calculation does or why it was structured in a particular way. This is achieved by placing the hash symbol at the beginning of your comment line or anywhere in the line after the code.

Using other symbols like the slash, asterisk, or exclamation mark does not serve this purpose in Python and would not correctly initiate a comment in the language. Hence, the hash symbol is specifically designated for this function, making it the correct answer.