Open in App
Log In Start studying!

Select your language

Suggested languages for you:

Problem 1

Give an example in the spirit of the recursion theorem of a program in a real programming language (or a reasonable approximation thereof) that prints itself out.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A Python program that prints its own source code can be demonstrated as follows: ```python def main(): with open(__file__, 'r') as source_code_file: source_code = source_code_file.read() print(source_code) if __name__ == "__main__": main() ``` This program utilizes the recursion theorem concept by reading its own source code file using `__file__` attribute and printing its content.
See the step by step solution

Step by step solution

Unlock all solutions

Get unlimited access to millions of textbook solutions with Vaia Premium

Over 22 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Step 1: Create the main function

Begin by creating the main function in Python, called "main()". This function will be responsible for executing the code to read the source file and print its content. ```python def main(): # Code to read and print file content goes here ```

Step 2: Read the source code file

Inside the main function, we will use `open()` to read the source code file. Use the `__file__` attribute to read the current script file. Then, use the function `read()` to read the content of the file. ```python def main(): with open(__file__, 'r') as source_code_file: source_code = source_code_file.read() ```

Step 3: Print the source code

After reading the content of the source code file, we can now print the content of the source_code variable. ```python def main(): with open(__file__, 'r') as source_code_file: source_code = source_code_file.read() print(source_code) ```

Step 4: Call the main function

Finally, we must call the main function in order to execute our code and make the program print its own source code. ```python def main(): with open(__file__, 'r') as source_code_file: source_code = source_code_file.read() print(source_code) if __name__ == "__main__": main() ``` Now, when you run this Python script, it will read its own source code and print it out. This demonstrates the concept of the recursion theorem, where a program can effectively "print itself out."

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Access millions of textbook solutions in one place

  • Access over 3 million high quality textbook solutions
  • Access our popular flashcard, quiz, mock-exam and notes features
  • Access our smart AI features to upgrade your learning
Get Vaia Premium now
Access millions of textbook solutions in one place

Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App

The first learning app that truly has everything you need to ace your exams in one place.

  • Flashcards & Quizzes
  • AI Study Assistant
  • Smart Note-Taking
  • Mock-Exams
  • Study Planner
Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App

Recommended explanations on Math Textbooks