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 , let's analyze the given conditions and use the properties of connected graphs.
Problem Analysis
- Graph is connected: This means there is a path between any pair of vertices.
- For any non-empty subset , the subgraph induced by is also connected: This implies that any subset of vertices in forms a connected subgraph.
Given these conditions, let's reason about the structure of and find the number of edges in terms of .
Key Insight: 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 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, must be a complete graph .
Counting the Edges in a Complete Graph
For a complete graph with vertices:
- Each vertex is connected to every other vertex.
- The total number of edges in is given by the formula:
Conclusion
The number of edges in is:
Proof
- By the given conditions, for any non-empty subset , the subgraph induced by is connected.
- This condition can only hold if every possible subset of vertices is interconnected by edges, which implies that is a complete graph .
- The number of edges in a complete graph with vertices is , as each pair of vertices has an edge between them.
Thus, we have shown that:
Would you like more details on any part of the proof or further examples?
Here are some additional questions you might find interesting:
- What would happen if were not connected initially?
- How would the number of edges change if we allow disconnected subsets?
- Is it possible to have a graph where every subset is connected without being complete?
- How does this result relate to minimal connected graphs like trees?
- 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.
Ask a new question for Free
By Image
Drop file here or Click Here to upload
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
Related Recommendation
Graph Theory: Vertex Degree and Connected Components
Understanding Graph Theory Problems: Analyzing Vertices, Edges, and Connectivity
Maximum Number of Edges in a Graph with n Vertices and n-2 Components
Connected Components in Induced Subgraphs
Minimum Edges in a Graph with 40 Vertices and Degree at Least 5