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Ackermann's function: A study in the efficiency of calling procedures

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Abstract

A six line recursive procedure is used to assess the efficiency of the procedure calling mechanism in ALGOL-like languages. The results from some 40 systems varying from ALGOL 68 and PL/I to System Implementation Languages for minicomputers are presented and compared. A hundred to one variation in performance occurs with this test, the major reasons for which are given.

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References

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Wichmann, B.A. Ackermann's function: A study in the efficiency of calling procedures. BIT 16, 103–110 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01940783

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01940783

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