Which of the following algorithm design techniques is characterized by breaking a problem into smaller sub-problems and solving each recursively?     

Divide and Conquer is a powerful algorithmic technique that breaks down a problem into smaller, more manageable sub-problems, solves each one independently, and then combines their results to form the final solution. This approach is exemplified in algorithms such as Merge Sort and QuickSort. It is highly efficient in solving complex problems, offering improved time complexity compared to iterative or brute force methods. Dynamic programming, though similar, involves solving sub-problems and storing their results to avoid redundant calculations.