Which of the following statements are CORRECT?1) Static allocation of ...
Statement 1 – True
Dynamic memory allocation is necessary for implementing recursion because the number of function calls is not known in advance, requiring the use of a function call stack.
Statement 2 – False
Automatic garbage collection is not essential for recursion implementation, as languages provide specific functions for manual memory management.
Statement 3 – True
Dynamic memory allocation is required for recursion since the exact number of function calls cannot be predetermined.
Statement 4 – False
Recursion requires a stack structure. If a heap is used, it must be simulated as a stack for recursion purposes. The heap is generally used for user-driven dynamic memory allocation and is not needed for function calls. Thus, both stack and heap are not required simultaneously; either one is sufficient to implement recursion.
Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are true.
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Which of the following statements are CORRECT?1) Static allocation of ...
Understanding Recursion and Memory Allocation
Recursion is a fundamental concept in computer science where a function calls itself to solve a problem. The implementation of recursion relies heavily on memory management techniques. Let's evaluate the correctness of the statements provided:
1) Static Allocation of All Data Areas by a Compiler Makes It Impossible to Implement Recursion
- Static allocation reserves memory at compile time and does not allow for dynamic changes during execution.
- This limitation indeed makes it impossible to handle multiple recursive calls, as all instances of a recursive function would try to use the same memory space.
2) Automatic Garbage Collection is Essential to Implement Recursion
- While garbage collection helps manage memory efficiently, it is not essential for recursion.
- Recursion can function without garbage collection, as long as the memory for each function call is properly managed.
3) Dynamic Allocation of Activation Records is Essential to Implement Recursion
- Activation records (or stack frames) hold information about function calls, including local variables and return addresses.
- Dynamic allocation of these records allows for multiple instances of a recursive function to exist simultaneously, making this statement correct.
4) Both Heap and Stack are Essential to Implement Recursion
- Recursion primarily uses the stack for managing function calls.
- The heap is not essential for recursion, as it is typically used for dynamic memory allocation not related to function call management.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
- Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' (1 and 3 only).
This highlights the critical importance of stack management in recursion, while clarifying that garbage collection and heap memory are not strictly necessary for recursive function execution.