[Numpy-discussion] types as functions convert 1 elm arrays to scalars

Hello,

I have a quick question that I'm hoping will improve my numpy understanding. I noticed some behavior when using float64 to convert a matrix type that I didn't expect:

In [35]: b1 = array([1.0])

In [36]: float64(b1) Out[36]: 1.0

In [37]: b2 = array([1.0, 2.0])

In [38]: float64(b2) Out[38]: array([ 1., 2.])

I didn't expect calling float64 would convert b1 to a scalar. Seems like an inconsistency. I assume this is intentional, as someone would have noticed it a long time ago if not, so could someone explain the reasoning behind it? (or point me to a source that will help?)

Thanks! --Hoyt