Base case
Definition
The base case is the condition under which a recursive function stops calling itself and begins to return values. It prevents infinite recursion by providing a simple, non-recursive answer to the problem.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- A base case is essential to prevent infinite loops in recursive functions.
- It typically handles the simplest instance of the problem, often with constants or trivial operations.
- Without a correctly defined base case, a recursive function would result in a stack overflow error.
- Base cases are usually checked at the beginning of the recursive function.
- In mathematical terms, the base case can be seen as an axiom that does not require further proof.
Review Questions
- Why is a base case necessary in recursion?
- What could happen if a recursive function does not have a base case?
- Where in your code should you generally place your base case check?
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Related terms
Recursion: A programming technique where a function calls itself to solve smaller instances of the same problem.
Recursive Function: A function that calls itself within its own definition.
Stack Overflow: \text{An error that occurs when there is too much memory used on the call stack, often caused by infinite recursion.}
