Understanding Two Graph Theory Problems

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on two graph theory problems: the definition of trees and the characteristics of complete bipartite graphs. The first problem asserts that a graph G is a tree if there is only one simple path between any two vertices a and b, which aligns with established definitions of trees. The second problem queries the conditions under which a complete bipartite graph K_{m,n} is also a complete graph K_{m+n}, highlighting the importance of the values of m and n. The discussion references a proof found in a UCSD mathematics slide deck.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graph theory concepts, specifically trees and bipartite graphs.
  • Familiarity with the definitions of complete graphs and complete bipartite graphs.
  • Knowledge of simple paths in graph structures.
  • Ability to interpret mathematical proofs and definitions from academic resources.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the definitions and properties of trees in graph theory.
  • Research complete bipartite graphs and their relation to complete graphs.
  • Examine the proof techniques used in graph theory, particularly those related to acyclic graphs.
  • Explore the implications of edge removal in connected graphs and its impact on graph connectivity.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, computer science, and related fields who are interested in graph theory, particularly those studying tree structures and bipartite graphs.

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Hi!

I'm struggling with these two problems:

1. If for whichever two vertices a and b in the graph G there is only one simple path from a to b, then the graph is a tree.

Eh... isn't this part of the definition for a tree? I really don't even know where to start with proving this statements.

2. Find which complete bipartite graphs are complete.

What does it mean which COMPLETE bipartite graphs are complete? Can a complete bipartite graph not be complete?

Any help is very much appreciated!
 
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There are several equivalent definitions of a tree. Some of them are:
  1. A connected acyclic graph.
  2. A graph where every two vertices are connected by a single simple path.
  3. A connected graph where every edge is a bridge (i.e., its removal makes the graph disconnected).
  4. A connected graph with $n$ vertices and $n-1$ edges.
  5. An acyclic graph with $n$ vertices and $n-1$ edges.

Concerning the second problem, a complete graph $K_n$ on $n$ vertices is a graph that has an edge between every pair of vertices. So I think the question means, for which $m$ and $n$ the complete bipartite graph $K_{m,n}$ is also $K_{m+n}$. The answer probably depends on whether $m$ and $n$ in $K_{m,n}$ can be zero.
 

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