Function to Compute Factorial - Python Programming Exercise

In this exercise, you will develop a Python program with a recursive function to compute the factorial of a given number. The factorial of a number is defined as: 𝑛 ! = 𝑛 × ( 𝑛 − 1 ) × ( 𝑛 − 2 ) × ( 𝑛 − 3 ) × … × 3 × 2 × 1 For example, $$6! = 6 \times 5 \times 4 \times 3 \times 2 \times 1$$ Create a function to calculate the factorial of the number specified as a parameter. This exercise is perfect for practicing function definition, recursion, and arithmetic operations in Python. By implementing this function, you will gain hands-on experience in handling function definitions, recursion, and arithmetic operations in Python. This exercise not only reinforces your understanding of functions but also helps you develop efficient coding practices for managing user interactions.

 Category

Mastering Functions

 Exercise

Function To Compute Factorial

 Objective

Develop a Python program with a recursive function to compute the factorial of a given number. The factorial of a number is defined as:

n! = n × (n-1) × (n-2) × (n-3) × ... × 3 × 2 × 1

For example, 6! = 6 × 5 × 4 × 3 × 2 × 1

Create a function to calculate the factorial of the number specified as a parameter. For instance, if you call factorial(6), it should display 720.

 Example Python Exercise

 Copy Python Code 
# Define the recursive factorial function
def factorial(n):
    # Base case: factorial of 0 or 1 is 1
    if n == 0 or n == 1:
        return 1
    else:
        # Recursive case: n! = n * (n-1)!
        return n * factorial(n - 1)

# Main function to test the factorial function
def main():
    number = 6
    print(factorial(number))  # This should print 720

# Call the main function to execute the program
if __name__ == "__main__":
    main()

 Output

720

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