Constructions from dots and lines

A graph is a data structure composed of dots (i.e. vertices) and lines (i.e.edges). The dots and lines of a graph can be organized into intricatearrangements. The ability for a graph to denote objects and their relationshipsto one another allow for a surprisingly large number of things to be modeled asa graph. From the dependencies that link software packages to the wood beamsthat provide the framing to a house, most anything has a corresponding graphrepresentation. However, just because it is possible to represent something asa graph does not necessarily mean that its graph representation will be useful.If a modeler can leverage the plethora of tools and algorithms that store andprocess graphs, then such a mapping is worthwhile. This article explores theworld of graphs in computing and exposes situations in which graphical modelsare beneficial.