graph_theory
graph_theory
Is it possible to walk through the city, crossing each of its seven bridges exactly once?
The Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler solved this problem in 1736, proving that it was impossible. His solution laid
the groundwork for graph theory.
Euler’s Solution
Euler proved that:
• A graph has an Eulerian circuit if and only if every vertex has an even degree.
• A graph has an Eulerian path (but not an Eulerian circuit) if exactly two vertices have an odd degree.
In the Königsberg graph:
• Vertex A has degree 3 (odd).
• Vertex B has degree 5 (odd).
• Vertex C has degree 3 (odd).
• Vertex D has degree 3 (odd).
Since all four vertices have an odd degree, the graph does not have an Eulerian path or an Eulerian circuit. This result
implies it is impossible to cross each bridge exactly once and return to the starting point.
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Solving a Crime Problem Using Graph Theory
Consider the following scenario:
- There are three persons: A, B, and C. - One of them is a thief. - One of them is telling the truth.
Their statements are as follows:
The question is: How can we determine who the thief is using graph theory?
A C
Accusation Diagram
In this logical setup, we have three individuals: A, B, and C. Each of them makes statements about who they believe to be
the thief. The accusations can be represented by colored lines in a graph structure, as follows:
• A claims, ”I am not the thief,” which implies that A is accusing both B and C. These accusations are represented by
blue lines connecting A to B and A to C.
• B directly accuses A of being the thief. This accusation is represented by a green line connecting B to A.
• C states that he is not the thief, implying that C is accusing both A and B. These accusations are represented by red
lines connecting C to A and C to B.
This graph structure visually illustrates the relationships between their statements and accusations.
Analysing Sub-Graphs
B B
A C
A C A C
To determine the thief among A, B, and C, we analyze each possible scenario based on their statements and the rule that
only one person tells the truth.
• If A is the thief: Then B and C are telling the truth, as both accuse A. This contradicts the rule that only one
person is telling the truth.
• If B is the thief: Then A and C are telling the truth, as both accuse B, leading again to a contradiction with the
single truth-teller rule.
• If C is the thief: Then only A tells the truth (by accusing C), while B and C lie. This satisfies the rule that only
one person tells the truth.
Thus, we conclude that C is the thief, as it is the only logically consistent scenario.
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Applications of Graph Theory
1. Computer Networks
Graph theory plays a vital role in designing and managing computer networks. In this context, a network is modeled as a
graph where computers or routers are represented as vertices, and the communication links between them as edges.
For example, routing algorithms like Dijkstra’s Algorithm use graph theory to find the shortest path between nodes in
a network. This ensures that data sent across a network travels the most efficient route. A practical application of this is
seen in internet protocols, where data packets are routed through multiple networks before reaching their destination. Graph
theory also helps in network flow analysis, congestion detection, and network resilience in the case of failures.
2. Social Networks
Graph theory is at the heart of social network analysis. In social networks like Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, individuals
are represented as vertices, and relationships (such as friendships, followings, or interactions) are represented as edges.
A specific example of graph theory in social networks is the identification of communities or clusters of users who are more
connected to each other than to other users. Community detection algorithms, based on graph partitioning, allow platforms
to recommend friends or suggest groups. Additionally, graph theory is used to study information spread and influence within
a network, such as viral marketing or the spread of trends.
Conclusion
Graph theory is a powerful and versatile tool that is applied in a wide range of real-life domains. Its applications span
from optimizing transportation networks and analyzing social media interactions to powering internet search engines and
enhancing biological research. As technology continues to evolve, graph theory will remain a cornerstone in solving complex
problems across diverse fields, making it an indispensable tool in the modern world.