Ramsey's Theorem - Directed Graph Ramsey Numbers

Directed Graph Ramsey Numbers

It is also possible to define Ramsey numbers for directed graphs. (These were introduced by P. Erdős & L. Moser.) Let R(n) be the smallest number Q such that any complete graph with singly directed arcs (also called a "tournament") and with ≥ Q nodes contains an acyclic (also called "transitive") n-node subtournament.

This is the directed-graph analogue of what (above) has been called R(n,n;2), the smallest number Z such that any 2-colouring of the edges of a complete undirected graph with ≥ Z nodes, contains a monochromatic complete graph on n nodes. (The directed analogue of the two possible arc colours is the two directions of the arcs, the analogue of "monochromatic" is "all arc-arrows point the same way," i.e. "acyclic.")

Indeed many find the directed graph problem to actually be more elegant than the unidirected one. We have R(0)=0, R(1)=1, R(2)=2, R(3)=4, R(4)=8, R(5)=14, R(6)=28, 32≤R(7)≤55, and R(8) is again a problem you do not want powerful aliens to pose.

Read more about this topic:  Ramsey's Theorem

Famous quotes containing the words directed, graph and/or numbers:

    “The highest proof of civility is that the whole public action of the State is directed on securing the greatest good of the greatest number.”
    —Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)

    “When producers want to know what the public wants, they graph it as curves. When they want to tell the public what to get, they say it in curves.”
    —Marshall McLuhan (1911–1980)

    “... there are persons who seem to have overcome obstacles and by character and perseverance to have risen to the top. But we have no record of the numbers of able persons who fall by the wayside, persons who, with enough encouragement and opportunity, might make great contributions.”
    —Mary Barnett Gilson (1877–?)