Recursive functions call themselves to solve problems from "summary" of C Programming Language by Brian W. Kernighan,Dennis Ritchie
A recursive function is a function that calls itself to solve problems. This may seem like a circular definition, but it is a powerful technique that can be used to simplify complex problems. By breaking down a problem into smaller, more manageable sub-problems, a recursive function can repeatedly call itself until a base case is reached. This base case is the simplest form of the problem, where the function can return a known value without making any further recursive calls. The key to understanding recursive functions is to recognize that each recursive call operates on a smaller piece of the original problem. As the function calls itself, it gradually reduces the problem until it reaches the base case. At this point, the function can unwind its recursive calls, combining their results to produce a solution to the original problem. It is important to design recursive functions carefully to ensure that they eventually reach the base case and terminate. Without a proper base case, a recursive function could continue calling itself indefinitely, leading to a stack overflow and crashing the program. Additionally, recursive functions should be efficient, avoiding unnecessary repetition of work by storing intermediate results or using memoization techniques. While recursion can be a powerful tool, it is not always the best approach for every problem. In some cases, iterative solutions may be more straightforward and efficient. However, recursive functions offer a clear and elegant solution for problems that can be broken down into smaller sub-problems. By understanding the principles of recursion and designing recursive functions effectively, programmers can leverage this technique to solve a wide range of computational problems.
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