The structure of graphs with a vital linkage of order 2

Abstract

A linkage of order k of a graph G is a subgraph with k components, each of which is a path. A linkage is vital if it spans all vertices, and no other linkage connects the same pairs of end vertices. We give a characterization of the graphs with a vital linkage of order 2: they are certain minors of a family of highly structured graphs.

6 pages, 4 figures