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

1. A base case is essential to prevent infinite loops in recursive functions.
2. It typically handles the simplest instance of the problem, often with constants or trivial operations.
3. Without a correctly defined base case, a recursive function would result in a stack overflow error.
4. Base cases are usually checked at the beginning of the recursive function.
5. 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?

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.}