Directed Graph

A directed graph is a mathematical structure composed of vertices (nodes) connected by edges that have explicit directional relationships, typically represented as arrows pointing from one vertex to another. In formal notation, a directed graph is defined as G = (V, E) where V represents vertices and E represents ordered pairs of vertices showing direction. This differs from undirected graphs where edges have no inherent direction. Directed graphs are useful for modeling systems where relationships have asymmetric properties, such as transactions flowing from sender to receiver or dependencies between different tasks or contracts. Example: The Ethereum state transition system can be represented as a directed graph where vertices represent different blockchain states and edges represent valid transactions that move the network from one state to another. Why it matters for blockchain technology: Directed graphs model the causal and transactional relationships fundamental to blockchain systems. They help represent transaction flows, smart contract dependencies, and consensus mechanisms, making them essential for understanding and analyzing blockchain architecture and data structures.

Category: blockchain technology

Explore the full Web3 Glossary — 2,038+ expert-curated definitions. Need guidance? Talk to our consultants.