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Mastering Graph Algorithms for Further Maths Decision

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A

Amy

07/12/2025

Further Maths

Further Maths Decision1: Algorithms on Graphs

166

7 Dec 2025

3 pages

Mastering Graph Algorithms for Further Maths Decision

A

Amy

@amy_udqc

Graph algorithms are powerful tools that help solve real-world problems... Show more

Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
1 / 3
Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Minimum Spanning Trees

Ever wondered how engineers decide the cheapest way to connect multiple cities with roads? Minimum spanning trees (MST) solve exactly this problem by finding the lowest-cost way to connect all vertices in a graph.

Kruskal's algorithm works like a bargain hunter - it sorts all edges by weight and picks the cheapest ones first. Start by listing all edges from smallest to largest weight, then keep adding the cheapest edge that doesn't create a cycle. You'll stop when all vertices are connected, guaranteed to have the minimum total cost.

Prim's algorithm takes a different approach by growing the tree from a single starting point. Pick any vertex to begin, then repeatedly add the cheapest edge that connects your existing tree to a new vertex. This method feels more natural since you're building outward step by step.

Top Tip: Kruskal's focuses on edges globally, whilst Prim's grows locally from your current tree - both give the same minimum weight!

Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Distance Matrices and Shortest Paths

Working with distance matrices makes Prim's algorithm even more systematic, especially when dealing with dense graphs. You'll delete rows and number columns as you build your spanning tree, circling the smallest values to identify your next connection.

Dijkstra's algorithm is your go-to method for finding the shortest path between two specific points. Think of it like exploring a map systematically - you assign final labels to vertices in order of their distance from the start. Each vertex keeps working values that get updated as you discover potentially shorter routes.

The beauty of Dijkstra's lies in its guarantee: once a vertex receives its final label, you've definitely found the shortest path to it. No vertex gets labeled until you're absolutely certain of the optimal route.

Remember: Dijkstra's only works with non-negative weights - negative edges would break the algorithm's logic!

Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Finding All Shortest Paths

Floyd's algorithm tackles the ultimate challenge: finding the shortest path between every pair of vertices simultaneously. Rather than running Dijkstra's multiple times, this clever method updates all distances in systematic iterations.

You'll work with two tables - a distance table showing current shortest distances and a route table tracking the actual paths. The key insight is simple: if going through vertex A makes any journey shorter, update both tables accordingly.

Each iteration focuses on one vertex as a potential "stepping stone." Shade that vertex's row and column, then check if routing through it improves any existing paths. The rule is straightforward: if distance via A plus distance from A is less than the current direct distance, make the change.

Pro Strategy: Floyd's algorithm is perfect for small graphs where you need all shortest paths - it's more efficient than running Dijkstra's from every vertex!



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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Further Maths

166

7 Dec 2025

3 pages

Mastering Graph Algorithms for Further Maths Decision

A

Amy

@amy_udqc

Graph algorithms are powerful tools that help solve real-world problems like finding the cheapest way to connect cities or the shortest route between locations. You'll master three essential algorithms that appear frequently in exams and have practical applications in everything... Show more

Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Minimum Spanning Trees

Ever wondered how engineers decide the cheapest way to connect multiple cities with roads? Minimum spanning trees (MST) solve exactly this problem by finding the lowest-cost way to connect all vertices in a graph.

Kruskal's algorithm works like a bargain hunter - it sorts all edges by weight and picks the cheapest ones first. Start by listing all edges from smallest to largest weight, then keep adding the cheapest edge that doesn't create a cycle. You'll stop when all vertices are connected, guaranteed to have the minimum total cost.

Prim's algorithm takes a different approach by growing the tree from a single starting point. Pick any vertex to begin, then repeatedly add the cheapest edge that connects your existing tree to a new vertex. This method feels more natural since you're building outward step by step.

Top Tip: Kruskal's focuses on edges globally, whilst Prim's grows locally from your current tree - both give the same minimum weight!

Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Distance Matrices and Shortest Paths

Working with distance matrices makes Prim's algorithm even more systematic, especially when dealing with dense graphs. You'll delete rows and number columns as you build your spanning tree, circling the smallest values to identify your next connection.

Dijkstra's algorithm is your go-to method for finding the shortest path between two specific points. Think of it like exploring a map systematically - you assign final labels to vertices in order of their distance from the start. Each vertex keeps working values that get updated as you discover potentially shorter routes.

The beauty of Dijkstra's lies in its guarantee: once a vertex receives its final label, you've definitely found the shortest path to it. No vertex gets labeled until you're absolutely certain of the optimal route.

Remember: Dijkstra's only works with non-negative weights - negative edges would break the algorithm's logic!

Chapter 3: Algorithing on Graphs.
Minimum spanning tree- spanning tree such that the total
of its arcs is as small as possible.
Kruskal's al

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Finding All Shortest Paths

Floyd's algorithm tackles the ultimate challenge: finding the shortest path between every pair of vertices simultaneously. Rather than running Dijkstra's multiple times, this clever method updates all distances in systematic iterations.

You'll work with two tables - a distance table showing current shortest distances and a route table tracking the actual paths. The key insight is simple: if going through vertex A makes any journey shorter, update both tables accordingly.

Each iteration focuses on one vertex as a potential "stepping stone." Shade that vertex's row and column, then check if routing through it improves any existing paths. The rule is straightforward: if distance via A plus distance from A is less than the current direct distance, make the change.

Pro Strategy: Floyd's algorithm is perfect for small graphs where you need all shortest paths - it's more efficient than running Dijkstra's from every vertex!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content in Further Maths

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user