A Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) is a graph structure that consists of nodes connected by directed edges, where each edge has a direction indicating the flow from one node to another. The term acyclic ensures that there are no cycles or loops in the graph, meaning it is impossible to return to a node once it has been traversed. DAGs are primarily used in scenarios where relationships between entities are hierarchical and time-sensitive, such as in project scheduling, data processing workflows, and version control systems.
In a DAG, each node can represent a task or an event, and the directed edges indicate dependencies between these tasks, ensuring that a task can only start when all its prerequisite tasks have been completed. This structure allows for efficient scheduling and execution, as it enables parallel processing of independent tasks. Overall, the DAG structure is crucial for optimizing workflows in various fields, including computer science, operations research, and project management.
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