What are the differences between MST and other graph algorithms?

What are the main differences between Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) algorithms and other graph algorithms?

MST algorithms focus on connecting all vertices in a graph with the minimum total edge weight, while other graph algorithms may prioritize different objectives, like shortest paths or connectivity.

Can you give examples of other graph algorithms?

Sure! Examples include Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest paths, Prim's and Kruskal's algorithms for MST, and Depth-First Search (DFS) for exploring graph structures.

When would I use an MST algorithm over Dijkstra's?

You'd use an MST algorithm when you need to connect all nodes with the least total weight, like in network design, while Dijkstra's is best for finding the shortest path between two specific nodes.

Are there any scenarios where MST algorithms are not suitable?

Yes, MST algorithms are not suitable for problems requiring specific paths or when edge weights can change dynamically, as they focus solely on overall connectivity.