Recursion in Python Quiz

What happens when a recursive function in Python does not have a proper base case?

• The function returns None

• The function executes indefinitely until manually stopped

• The function immediately raises a syntax error

• The function returns a random value

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Consider the recursive function to calculate factorial of a number `n`. What is the base case for this function?

• `n == 0`

• `n == 1`

• `n > 1`

• `n < 1`

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following is a correct recursive function to compute the sum of numbers from 1 to `n`?

• ```python def sum_numbers(n): if n == 1: return 1 else: return n + sum_numbers(n-1) ```

• ```python def sum_numbers(n): return n + sum_numbers(n) ```

• ```python def sum_numbers(n): if n == 0: return 0 else: return n ```

• ```python def sum_numbers(n): if n > 1: return n else: return n + sum_numbers(n-1) ```

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

In a recursive function, what is the purpose of the recursive case?

• To handle the simplest case and terminate the recursion

• To reduce the problem into smaller problems

• To perform cleanup after recursion ends

• To initialize variables

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the output of the following Python recursive function when called as `find(5)`? ```python def find(n): if n == 0: return 0 else: return find(n-1) + n ```

• 10

• 15

• 5

• 0

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following scenarios is most appropriate for using recursion?

• Calculating the maximum value in a list

• Sorting a list using merge sort

• Adding two numbers

• Printing "Hello World" 10 times

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

How does a recursive function differ from an iterative function in Python?

• Recursive functions are always faster than iterative functions

• Recursive functions can handle any size input, while iterative cannot

• Recursive functions use the function call stack to handle function calls

• Iterative functions are less accurate than recursive functions

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is a common problem encountered when implementing recursive functions without careful planning?

• Type mismatches in function parameters

• Infinite loops due to missing base cases

• Syntax errors due to complex expressions

• Reduced precision in floating-point calculations

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following is an example of a direct recursive function in Python?

• A function that calls another function which then calls the original function

• A function that calls itself directly

• A function that never calls itself or any other function

• A function that uses a loop to repeat operations

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the output of the following Python recursive function when called as `count_down(3)`? ```python def count_down(n): if n == 0: print("Go!") else: print(n) count_down(n-1) ```

• 3, 2, 1, "Go!"

• "Go!", 3, 2, 1

• 1, 2, 3, "Go!"

• "Go!"

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept