Final answer:
A pure function is a function that always returns a value and doesn't modify anything outside its scope. It is a mathematical concept used in programming.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pure function is a function that always returns a value and doesn't modify anything outside its scope. It is a mathematical concept used in programming to describe functions that have no side effects.
For example, a pure function that calculates the square of a number would take a number as input and return its square, without modifying any variables outside the function or producing any other side effects.
Pure functions are important in programming as they are predictable and easier to test. They can be reasoned about in isolation and can be used to build complex systems by composing them together.