What term describes a block of code designed to perform a specific calculation?

The term that describes a block of code designed to perform a specific calculation is a function. A function is a self-contained piece of code that takes inputs, processes them, and returns a result. It is defined by its name, which allows it to be called upon from other parts of the program, along with parameters that can be passed to it. This makes functions particularly useful in breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts that can be reused throughout a program.

While the other terms—method, procedure, and routine—can also refer to blocks of code, they are often used in different contexts. For example, a method is typically associated with object-oriented programming and implies that it belongs to an object or class. A procedure is often used interchangeably with function but usually emphasizes a series of steps that may not necessarily return a value. A routine can refer to any sequence of programming instructions designed to perform a task, but it is a more general term and does not specifically imply the ability to perform calculations or return values like a function does. Therefore, in the context of a block of code designed specifically for calculations, "function" is the most precise and widely accepted term.