Definition:Loop-Graph/Loop-Digraph

Informal Definition
A loop-digraph is a directed graph which allows an arc to start and end at the same vertex:


 * LoopDigraph.png

Loop
Such an arc is called a loop.

Formal Definition
A loop-digraph $D$ is a non-empty set $V$ together with a relation $E$ on $D$.

Thus it can be seen that a loop-digraph is a directed graph with the stipulation that the relation $E$ does not need to be antireflexive.

Loop-Digraph as a Relation
It can be seen by direct comparison that a loop-digraph is the same thing as a relational structure.

Also see

 * A Hasse diagram is a graphical depiction of an ordered set. However, its representation is stylised such that:
 * the loops are not shown;
 * relations arising as a result of transitivity are not shown;
 * directions are not shown by writing arrows on the edges, but by positioning destination vertices higher on the page.