What two functions can Python functions perform?

Python functions serve two primary purposes: they can cause some effect (such as modifying a variable, printing output, or updating a data structure) and they can evaluate and return a value. When a function is called, it executes a block of code that may perform actions like displaying results, changing states, or processing data, thus generating an effect. Simultaneously, functions can compute and return a result, which can further be used in expressions or processed by other parts of a program.

Other options present specific actions or types of functions that do not encompass the broader definition of what functions generally do. For instance, creating files or interacting with databases represents specific tasks rather than the fundamental capabilities of functions. Similarly, executing commands and debugging code are related to programming practices rather than the intrinsic roles of functions in Python.