Detailed explanation of python recursive function

Recursive function refers to a programming technique that uses the function itself in the function definition. Recursive functions usually include two parts: the base case and the recursive case. The base case refers to the end condition of the function, and the recursive case refers to the case when the function calls itself. Characteristics of recursive functions: 1. Easier to understand and write, especially for some problems, such as tree traversal, factorial calculation, Fibonacci sequence, etc.; 2. May be slower and may fail when processing large data sets. Cause stack overflow.

The operating system for this tutorial: Windows 10 system, Python version 3.11.4, Dell G3 computer.

Recursive function refers to a programming technique that uses the function itself in the function definition. In Python, recursive functions can help solve many problems, especially those that can be broken down into smaller versions. The following is a detailed explanation of recursive functions:

Basic concepts

Recursive functions refer to the process of calling the function itself in the definition of the function.

Recursive functions usually include two parts: the base case and the recursive case.

The basic situation refers to the end condition of the function, and the recursive situation refers to the situation where the function calls itself.

Characteristics of recursive functions

Recursive functions are usually easier to understand and write, especially for some problems, such as tree traversal, factorial calculation, and Fibonacci sequence wait.

Recursive functions may be slower and may cause stack overflow when processing large data sets.

Examples of recursive functions

Recursive implementation of factorial function:

def factorial(n):
    if n == 0:
        return 1
    else:
        return n * factorial(n-1)

Recursive implementation of Fibonacci sequence:

def fibonacci(n):
    if n <= 1:
        return n
    else:
        return fibonacci(n-1) + fibonacci(n-2)

Notes on Recursive Functions

Recursive functions should contain an explicit end condition to avoid infinite loops.

Recursive functions can cause performance issues, so in some cases, iteration may be a better choice.

The calling depth of recursive functions is limited by Python's maximum recursion depth. Tail recursion optimization or loops can be used to avoid this problem.

In summary, recursive functions are a powerful programming technique that can simplify the solution to a problem in certain situations. However, when using recursive functions, you need to pay attention to recursion depth and performance issues.

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