Math Problem Statement

List the edges of a spanning tree: Enter the list in the following format: AB, BC, AD. Note this is not auto graded.

List the edges of a spanning tree: Enter the list in the following format: AB, BC, AD.

Solution

The goal is to identify a spanning tree for the given graph. A spanning tree includes all the vertices of the graph without forming any cycles and minimizes the number of edges while maintaining connectivity.

Vertices:

The vertices of the graph are labeled: A, B, C, D, E, F, G.

Strategy:

To form a spanning tree:

  1. Include all the vertices.
  2. Avoid creating cycles.
  3. Use only n1n-1 edges, where nn is the number of vertices (n=7n = 7 here, so we need 71=67-1 = 6 edges).

Spanning Tree Edges:

From inspection of the graph, a possible spanning tree includes:

  1. ABAB
  2. BCBC
  3. ADAD
  4. DEDE
  5. EFEF
  6. FGFG

These edges ensure all vertices are connected without forming any cycles.

Would you like further clarification, or should I verify additional spanning tree possibilities?


Follow-up Questions:

  1. What are the key properties of spanning trees in connected graphs?
  2. How would the spanning tree change if we prioritize shorter edges (e.g., for a weighted graph)?
  3. How can one determine the number of spanning trees in a graph?
  4. What is the difference between a minimum spanning tree and any spanning tree?
  5. What algorithms (like Prim’s or Kruskal’s) can you use to find a spanning tree systematically?

Tip: When identifying a spanning tree, ensure there are exactly n1n-1 edges (no cycles), and every vertex is connected.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Graph Theory
Spanning Trees
Connectivity
Cycle Avoidance

Formulas

Number of edges in a spanning tree = n - 1 (where n is the number of vertices)

Theorems

Properties of Spanning Trees
Graph Connectivity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12