Maximizing Algebraic Connectivity with $2(n-2)$ Edges: The Large Vertex Number Case
Zeru Zhu, Jinzheng Li, Yuanjie Ren, Ji Liu
math.CO
Aug 7, 2026 · v1
cs.LO math.SP
TL;DR
A Lean formalization of Kolokolnikov's algebraic-connectivity conjecture for all n≥4 was produced with MerLean and checked by the Lean kernel.
Abstract
Kolokolnikov conjectured that, among finite simple graphs on $n$ vertices with exactly $2(n-2)$ edges, the complete bipartite graph $K_{2,n-2}$ maximizes algebraic connectivity. We prove the conjectured statement for every $n\ge123$: every such graph has algebraic connectivity at most $2$, while $K_{2,n-2}$ attains $2$. The proof begins with explicit Rayleigh-quotient certificates that exclude several local configurations from a hypothetical counterexample. A global degree count then controls the number and total excess of vertices of degree at least $5$ and bounds the edge excess of the subgraph induced by vertices of degree at most $4$. A Moore-type breadth-first-search criterion uses this excess to guarantee a short cycle, while a spectral criterion excludes cycles in the same length range. An explicit arithmetic estimate shows that the two criteria apply simultaneously once $n\ge123$. A Lean formalization covering every $n\ge4$, including the complementary range $4\le n\le122$, has been produced with MerLean and checked by the Lean kernel; the present paper gives a self-contained mathematical account of the large-order component.
Problem
Kolokolnikov conjectured that among finite simple graphs on n vertices with exactly 2(n-2) edges, the complete bipartite graph K_{2,n-2} maximizes algebraic connectivity (the second-smallest Laplacian eigenvalue), attaining value 2.
Approach
The human-readable proof handles large n by contradiction: Rayleigh-quotient certificates exclude local configurations, a global degree count bounds high-degree vertices and edge excess, a Moore-type breadth-first-search criterion forces a short cycle, and a spectral criterion excludes cycles in the same length range. An explicit arithmetic estimate shows both criteria apply once n≥123. A companion Lean formalization, produced with MerLean and checked by the Lean kernel, covers the full range n≥4 including the complementary small-order cases.
Results
For every n≥123, any such graph has algebraic connectivity at most 2, and K_{2,n-2} attains 2, so it is a maximizer. The Lean-verified formalization establishes the conjectured bound for all n≥4.