Module 4: The Car Simulator

Concept: Functions, Dictionaries, and Modular Logic.

We build a car dashboard with a GPS, engine startup, and fuel calculator. This lesson teaches you how to break large problems into small, manageable parts.

📺 The Build Session

🧠 Key Concepts

• Dictionary: Like a Vending Machine—you provide the Key (the name) and you get the Value (the data).
• Functions: def start_engine(): creates a "module" of code that can be reused infinitely without rewriting it.
• The Ignition Key: if __name__ == "__main__": is a safeguard. It ensures the car only starts when you turn the key directly, not when another program is just "inspecting" its parts.

💻 The Code Blueprint

# 1. Defining the Parts (Functions)
def start_engine():
    """Simulates starting the car's motor."""
    print("Vroom! Engine Started.")

def calculate_fuel(miles):
    """Calculates gallons needed for a trip."""
    return miles / 25  # Returns the value back to the main program

# 2. The Ignition Key (Modular Control)
if __name__ == "__main__":
    # This code only runs if we execute this file directly
    start_engine()

    trip_miles = 100
    gallons_needed = calculate_fuel(trip_miles)

    print(f"Trip of {trip_miles} miles used {gallons_needed} gallons.")