A Level Computer Science: Introduction to Functional Programming Paradigm
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All Computer Science topics are covered, and each module comes complete with:
Classroom Presentations
Revision Notes
Activities & Quizzes
Mind Maps, Flashcards & Glossaries
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary principle of immutability in functional programming?
Immutability in functional programming states that once a variable is assigned a value, it cannot be changed. Instead of modifying existing data structures, functional programming encourages the creation of new ones.
Explain the concept of pure functions in functional programming.
Pure functions are functions that, given the same input, always produce the same output and have no side effects. They don't rely on or modify external states, making them predictable, testable, and easy to reason about.
How does functional programming handle state in comparison to other programming paradigms?
Functional programming minimizes or eliminates mutable state, relying on immutability and pure functions. State changes are managed through the creation of new values rather than modifying existing ones, promoting a more declarative and predictable approach.
Why is recursion commonly used in functional programming?
Functional programming favours recursion as a replacement for traditional loop constructs. Recursive functions call themselves with simpler inputs to solve a problem iteratively, aligning with the paradigm's emphasis on immutability and pure functions.
How does functional programming support higher-order functions, and why are they important?
Functional programming treats functions as first-class citizens, allowing them to be passed as arguments to other functions or returned as values. Higher-order functions enable functional composition, where simple functions can be combined to create more complex ones, enhancing code modularity and expressiveness.