In Python's module named string, there is a line that says whitespace = ' \t\n\r\v\f'.
' ' is a space character.'\t' is a tab character.'\n' is a newline character.'\r' is a carriage-return character.'\v' maps to '\x0b' (11). What does it mean and how might it be typed on a keyboard (any OS)?'\f' maps to '\x0c' (12). What does it mean and how might it be typed on a keyboard (any OS)?
\v is a vertical tab. It was used in line printers to advance about 6 lines or so. It can be typed in *nix by pressing Ctrl-V Ctrl-K.
\f is a formfeed. It was used in line printers to advance to the next page. It can be typed in *nix by pressing Ctrl-V Ctrl-L.
Per wikipedia:
12 (form feed, \f, ^L), to cause a printer to eject paper to the top of the next page, or a video terminal to clear the screen.
^L means Control-L on most keyboards and OSes.
\v, code 11 (typeable as ^K) is essentially obsolete, while ^L is still occasionally used (e.g in vi to "refresh/repaint the screen" rather than just "clearing" it as in the original meaning).
