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Multiway Graph


A multiway graph is a graph representing all possible branches of evolution for a system. Each node in the graph represents a possible complete state of the system at a particular step, while each edge corresponds to the evolution of one state to another as a result of an updating event. In a causally invariant system, every branching in the multiway system must ultimately reconverge (Wolfram).

MultiwayGraph

For example, the illustration above shows the multiway graph for the evaluation of the Fibonacci number F_2 using its standard recursive definition. The path followed by the Wolfram Language's standard evaluator is delineated in red (Wolfram 2023).

Wolfram (2026) also represents all possible histories of repeated two-agent games as multiway graphs, with a strategy selecting a particular path through such a graph.


See also

Multicomputation, Multiway System

Explore with Wolfram|Alpha

References

Wolfram, S. "Expression Evaluation and Fundamental Physics: Multiway Evaluation and Multiway Graphs." Sep. 29, 2023. https://writings.stephenwolfram.com/2023/09/expression-evaluation-and-fundamental-physics/#multiway-evaluation-and-multiway-graphs.Wolfram, S. "Games between Programs: The Ruliology of Competition." Jun. 4, 2026. https://writings.stephenwolfram.com/2026/06/games-between-programs-the-ruliology-of-competition/.Wolfram, S. "Appendix: Graph Types: Multiway States Graph (Multiway Graph)." https://www.wolframphysics.org/technical-introduction/additional-material/appendix-graph-types/.

Referenced on Wolfram|Alpha

Multiway Graph

Cite this as:

Weisstein, Eric W. "Multiway Graph." From MathWorld--A Wolfram Resource. https://mathworld.wolfram.com/MultiwayGraph.html

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