Math Problem Statement

Let G = (V, E) be a connected graph such that for any non-
empty subset W C V the subgraph induced by W is also connected.
How many edges does G have? Express your answer in terms of n = |V|.
Prove your answer. You do not have to draw anything in your answer.

Solution

To find the number of edges in GG, let's analyze the given conditions and use the properties of connected graphs.

Problem Analysis

  1. Graph GG is connected: This means there is a path between any pair of vertices.
  2. For any non-empty subset WVW \subset V, the subgraph induced by WW is also connected: This implies that any subset of vertices in GG forms a connected subgraph.

Given these conditions, let's reason about the structure of GG and find the number of edges in terms of n=Vn = |V|.

Key Insight: GG Must Be a Complete Graph

If the subgraph induced by any subset of vertices is connected, this requirement is only satisfied by a complete graph:

  • A complete graph KnK_n is one in which every pair of distinct vertices is connected by a unique edge.
  • In a complete graph, any subset of vertices remains connected because every vertex is directly connected to every other vertex in the subset.

Therefore, GG must be a complete graph KnK_n.

Counting the Edges in a Complete Graph KnK_n

For a complete graph KnK_n with nn vertices:

  • Each vertex is connected to every other vertex.
  • The total number of edges in KnK_n is given by the formula: E=(n2)=n(n1)2|E| = \binom{n}{2} = \frac{n(n - 1)}{2}

Conclusion

The number of edges E|E| in GG is: E=n(n1)2|E| = \frac{n(n - 1)}{2}

Proof

  1. By the given conditions, for any non-empty subset WVW \subset V, the subgraph induced by WW is connected.
  2. This condition can only hold if every possible subset of vertices is interconnected by edges, which implies that GG is a complete graph KnK_n.
  3. The number of edges in a complete graph KnK_n with nn vertices is n(n1)2\frac{n(n - 1)}{2}, as each pair of vertices has an edge between them.

Thus, we have shown that: E=n(n1)2|E| = \frac{n(n - 1)}{2}

Would you like more details on any part of the proof or further examples?

Here are some additional questions you might find interesting:

  1. What would happen if GG were not connected initially?
  2. How would the number of edges change if we allow disconnected subsets?
  3. Is it possible to have a graph where every subset is connected without being complete?
  4. How does this result relate to minimal connected graphs like trees?
  5. What are the properties of subgraphs induced by non-complete graphs?

Tip: When reasoning about graph properties, always consider whether constraints on connectivity imply the graph is fully connected or if there might be exceptions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Graph Theory
Complete Graphs
Combinatorics

Formulas

|E| = n(n - 1) / 2
Binomial coefficient formula C(n, 2)

Theorems

Complete Graph Property
Induced Subgraph Connectivity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12