Which benefit is associated with utilizing functions in Karel programming?

Utilizing functions in Karel programming significantly enhances code readability and reusability. When functions are implemented, they allow programmers to encapsulate specific tasks or behaviors within reusable blocks of code. This encapsulation means that instead of rewriting the same code multiple times throughout a program, a programmer can simply call the function whenever that specific task needs to be performed.

This practice not only reduces the amount of code needed, but it also makes the program easier to understand, as functions can be named descriptively to indicate their purpose. As a result, this leads to cleaner code that is simpler to navigate and maintain. If changes are required, they can often be made within the function itself rather than across multiple instances of the same code, thus promoting efficiency and reducing the likelihood of errors.

In contrast, increasing a program's size is generally counterproductive, as more extensive codebases can become cumbersome and hard to manage. Restricting Karel's operational scope does not align with the benefits of using functions; instead, functions typically expand the capabilities of the program. While functions can help with debugging, they do not simplify debugging by removing loops specifically; rather, they enhance the overall structure of the code.