Which of the following describes the use of the 'open()' function in Python?

The 'open()' function in Python is primarily used to open a file for reading or writing. This function allows you to specify various modes in which the file can be accessed, such as reading ('r'), writing ('w'), or appending ('a'). When you use 'open()', you can interact with the file depending on the mode you choose. For instance, if you open a file in 'r' mode, it allows you to read the content of that file. If opened in 'w' mode, it clears the existing data in the file (if it exists) and allows for writing new data to it.

The flexibility of the 'open()' function is crucial for file manipulation in Python, as it can handle various file types and access permissions according to user needs. Understanding how to use this function is essential in scripting and automation tasks involving file operations, setting the foundation for more complex scripts that may involve data logging, configuration management, or content processing.