RECURSION Meaning and
Definition
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Recursion is a concept that is commonly used in computer science and mathematics, referring to the process of solving a problem or defining an entity by repeatedly applying a rule or procedure to successively smaller instances of the problem or entity. It involves the idea of self-reference and allows for the definition or generation of complex structures or functions through a repetitive process.
In computer science, recursion is often implemented through recursive functions, which are functions that call themselves within their own definition. When a recursive function is called with a particular input, it breaks the problem down into smaller subproblems, solves them by calling itself with reduced arguments, and then combines the results to obtain the final solution. This process continues until a base case, where the problem becomes trivial and thus can be directly solved, is reached.
Recursion can facilitate the implementation of elegant and concise solutions to problems that would otherwise be more complex and cumbersome to solve iteratively. It is frequently used in tasks such as searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, tree traversals, and various data manipulation tasks.
Outside the realm of computer science, recursion can be found in mathematical concepts like fractals, where a pattern or shape is self-repeating at different scales. Recursion is also relevant in linguistics, philosophy, and cognitive sciences, where it is studied for its role in language, thought processes, and reasoning.
Top Common Misspellings for RECURSION *
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Other Common Misspellings for RECURSION
Etymology of RECURSION
The word recursion comes from the Latin term recursionem which is the accusative form of the noun recurro. Recurro consists of two elements: re- meaning again and curro meaning to run. Therefore, recursion can be understood as to run again or to repeat running.
Similar spelling words for RECURSION
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