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What is the maximum number of edges in an undirected disconnected graph with n vertices?

The maximum number of edges in an undirected disconnected graph with n vertices is (n-1)(n-2)/2. This is achieved by forming a complete graph with n-1 vertices and leaving one vertex isolated.

Conditions

  • The graph is undirected.
  • The graph is disconnected.
  • The graph has n vertices.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify the number of vertices n.
  2. Apply the formula for the maximum number of edges in a disconnected graph: (n-1)(n-2)/2.
  3. Understand the construction: a complete graph on n-1 vertices plus one isolated vertex.

Example

For a graph with 6 vertices (n=6n=6), the maximum number of edges in a disconnected graph is (6-1)(6-2)/2 = 10. The instructor constructs this by making 5 vertices a complete graph and leaving the 6th vertex isolated.

Common misconceptions

  • Thinking that a disconnected graph can have as many edges as a connected graph.
  • Assuming that the isolated vertex can still be connected to some vertices without making the graph connected.

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