Math Problem Statement
answer
Solution
To determine the minimal spanning tree (MST) for this graph, we’ll analyze the edges based on their weights and select the smallest edges without forming any cycles. The goal is to include each vertex with the minimum possible weight.
Step-by-Step Solution
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Identify the Edge with Minimum Weight:
- We start with the smallest weights. From the image, the edges with the smallest weights are as follows:
- Edge with weight 2
- Edge with weight 3
- Edge with weight 3
- We start with the smallest weights. From the image, the edges with the smallest weights are as follows:
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Continue Adding the Next Smallest Edges While Avoiding Cycles:
- After adding the edges , , and , we move to the next smallest edges:
- Edge with weight 4
- Edge with weight 5
- Edge with weight 5
- After adding the edges , , and , we move to the next smallest edges:
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Construct the MST:
- By selecting these edges and checking to avoid any cycles, we get the following edges in our MST:
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Match with Options:
- This set corresponds to option (b):
Final Answer
The correct answer is (b).
Would you like more details on the method used here, such as Kruskal's or Prim's algorithm?
Here are five related questions that can expand your understanding:
- How does Kruskal's algorithm work for finding a minimal spanning tree?
- What is Prim's algorithm, and how does it differ from Kruskal's?
- Why do we avoid cycles when constructing a minimal spanning tree?
- How would the solution change if we had a graph with different weights?
- Can a minimal spanning tree be unique?
Tip: Always check the total weight of the MST to verify the minimal path, especially if there are multiple ways to connect nodes without cycles.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Graph Theory
Minimal Spanning Tree
Kruskal's Algorithm
Prim's Algorithm
Formulas
Minimal Spanning Tree (MST) Cost Calculation
Theorems
Minimal Spanning Tree Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 11-12, College Level
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