Math Problem Statement
Which of the following graphs have Hamiltonian circuits?
Solution
To determine which of the graphs have Hamiltonian circuits, let's analyze each graph:
What is a Hamiltonian circuit?
A Hamiltonian circuit is a closed loop on a graph where every vertex is visited exactly once, and the starting vertex is the same as the ending vertex.
Analysis:
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Graph A:
- This graph contains many connections and appears to have sufficient edges to form a Hamiltonian circuit. By checking, we can find a path that visits all vertices exactly once and returns to the starting vertex.
- Conclusion: Graph A has a Hamiltonian circuit.
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Graph B:
- Graph B also has a dense number of edges and sufficient connectivity. A Hamiltonian circuit can be formed by visiting all vertices and returning to the starting point.
- Conclusion: Graph B has a Hamiltonian circuit.
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Graph C:
- This graph is less connected and does not provide sufficient paths to traverse all vertices exactly once in a closed loop. It fails to meet the criteria for a Hamiltonian circuit.
- Conclusion: Graph C does not have a Hamiltonian circuit.
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Graph D:
- Similar to Graph C, Graph D lacks the necessary connectivity to form a Hamiltonian circuit. There are insufficient edges to create a closed loop covering all vertices.
- Conclusion: Graph D does not have a Hamiltonian circuit.
Final Answer:
- Graphs with Hamiltonian circuits: A and B.
Would you like a detailed explanation of how to construct the Hamiltonian circuits for these graphs? Let me know!
Here are some follow-up questions for practice:
- What is the difference between a Hamiltonian circuit and an Eulerian circuit?
- Can a graph with disconnected vertices have a Hamiltonian circuit?
- How can you prove whether a graph has a Hamiltonian circuit?
- What is the practical application of Hamiltonian circuits in real-world problems?
- Are Hamiltonian circuits unique for a given graph?
Tip: Remember that a Hamiltonian circuit focuses on visiting every vertex exactly once, while an Eulerian circuit involves traversing every edge exactly once.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Graph Theory
Hamiltonian Circuits
Formulas
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Theorems
Hamiltonian Circuit Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12