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1. The Challenge: Adding Two Numbers

Create a Python function addition(a, b) that takes two numbers as parameters and returns their total sum.

2. Why It Matters

Function parameters and return values form the foundation of Python programming. Mastering function inputs allows you to process dynamic data cleanly.

3. The Python Solution

In Python, functions are declared using the def keyword. The + operator computes the arithmetic sum:

def addition(a, b):
    return a + b

# Testing our function
print(addition(3, 2))   # Output: 5
print(addition(-3, -6)) # Output: -9
print(addition(7, 3))   # Output: 10

4. How It Works Under the Hood

1. When addition(3, 2) is invoked, parameter a receives value 3 and parameter b receives value 2.
2. Python evaluates 3 + 2 to compute integer 5.
3. The return keyword exits the function and sends 5 back to the caller.

5. Common Mistakes

• String Concatenation Trap: If inputs are passed as strings (like "3" and "2"), Python performs string concatenation ("3" + "2" == "32"). Use int(a) + int(b) if parsing user text inputs!
• Forgetting the return Statement: Writing print(a + b) inside the function displays the value on the console, but returns None to the caller.

6. Next Steps

Always use return to output values from functions. Next, let's convert minutes into seconds!