Python 3: Project-based Python, Algorithms, Data Structures - Insertion sort programmatic execution step by step

This video tutorial explains the divide functionality of the merge sort algorithm. It covers how the divide function splits a list into individual elements using recursion and highlights the importance of identifying a base case to prevent infinite loops. The video includes a code walkthrough and discusses the execution flow of the program, setting the stage for further exploration in subsequent videos.

What is the primary purpose of the merge function in the merge sort algorithm?

• To find the maximum element in a list

• To split a list into two halves

• To sort a list in descending order

• To merge two sorted lists into one sorted list

What does the divide function do in the merge sort algorithm?

• It finds the median of a list

• It splits a list into individual elements

• It merges two lists into one

• It sorts a list in ascending order

In the context of the divide function, what is recursion?

• A function that never ends

• A function calling itself

• A function that merges lists

• A function that sorts a list

Why is a base case important in a recursive function?

• To sort the list in descending order

• To ensure the function runs indefinitely

• To prevent the function from calling itself infinitely

• To make the function run faster

What happens when the base case is reached in a recursive function?

• The function sorts the list

• The function merges two lists

• The function returns a result and stops calling itself

• The function continues to call itself

What is the base case for the divide function in the merge sort algorithm?

• When the list has exactly two elements

• When the list has less than two elements

• When the list has more than two elements

• When the list is empty

What will be covered in the next video following this one?

• The merge function in detail

• The execution flow of the divide function

• The applications of recursion

• The history of merge sort