Edge-grafting theorems on permanents of the Laplacian matrices of graphs and their applications

Abstract

The trees, respectively unicyclic graphs, on $n$ vertices with the smallest Laplacian permanent are studied. In this paper, by edge-grafting transformations, the $n$-vertex trees of given bipartition having the second and third smallest Laplacian permanent are identified. Similarly, the $n$-vertex bipartite unicyclic graphs of given bipartition having the first, second and third smallest Laplacian permanent are characterized. Consequently, the $n$-vertex bipartite unicyclic graphs with the first, second and third smallest Laplacian permanent are determined.

16 pages; 8 figures