Skip to main content

Section 12.1 Graphs Chapter Introduction

Graphs offer unparalleled versatility as a data structure. They consist of nodes and edges, where edges connect pairs of nodes. Notably, both trees and lists can be considered as specific cases of graphs.
Graphs find extensive use in modeling real-world systems and abstract problems, making them a preferred data structure in numerous applications. Below are some examples of the diverse problems for which graphs are routinely employed:
  1. Representing connectivity in computer and communication networks.
  2. Abstractly mapping locations and distances, useful for calculating shortest routes in GPS navigation.
  3. Modeling flow capacities in transportation networks to identify bottlenecks.
  4. Solving pathfinding problems from a starting condition to a goal condition, commonly in AI and gaming applications.
  5. Depicting computer algorithms, showcasing transitions between program states.
  6. Determining an optimal order for completing subtasks in complex activities, like constructing large buildings.
  7. Modeling relationships, such as family trees, organizational structures, and scientific classifications.
Here is a link to the OpenDSA textbook that shows examples of different graphs: Read Me 1 
You have attempted of activities on this page.
opendsa-server.cs.vt.edu/OpenDSA/Books/Everything/html/GraphIntro.html