How does iteration differ from recursion in programming?

Iteration is defined as a process where a set of instructions is repeated multiple times, typically utilizing loops such as "for" or "while" to achieve repetition until a specified condition is met. This method is characterized by its straightforward approach to executing the same code block repeatedly, which can lead to efficient handling of large data sets or performing repetitive tasks.

Understanding this concept captures the essence of how iteration works in programming, distinguishing it from other methods like recursion, where functions call themselves to break down problems into smaller subproblems. Unlike iteration, recursion can introduce additional overhead due to function calls and maintaining multiple states in the call stack, which may sometimes affect performance.

The other options do not accurately reflect the fundamental characteristics of iteration. For instance, the idea that iteration uses functions that call themselves refers to recursion. While it may be observed that iteration can be faster in certain contexts, speed is not an inherent definition of iteration. Moreover, stating that iteration is only for sorting is misleading, as iteration can be utilized in a wide range of scenarios beyond just sorting algorithms, including updating data structures, searching for elements, or traversing lists.