Can you explain what is meant by API in the context of programming?

API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of rules and tools that allows different software components to interact with each other. In simple terms, an API defines how one program can request data or functionality from another without delving into its internal implementation details.

For example, when you use a weather app on your phone, it contacts the weather service API to get current information. The API specifies what requests can be sent, what data to expect in response, and how to handle errors.