Get Math Help

GET TUTORING NEAR ME!

By submitting the following form, you agree to Club Z!'s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

    Calkin-Wilf Tree

    Definition

    A Calkin-Wilf tree is a special type of binary tree obtained by starting with the fraction 1/1 and iteratively adding a/(a + b) and (a + b)/b below each fraction a/b. The Stern-Brocot tree is closely related, putting a/(a + b) and b/(a + b) below each fraction a/b. Both trees generate every rational number. Writing out the terms in sequence gives 1/1, 1/2, 2/1, 1/3, 3/2, 2/3, 3/1, 1/4, 4/3, 3/5, 5/2, 2/5, 5/3, 3/4, 4/1, ...The sequence has the property that each denominator is the next numerator. This sequence, 1, 1, 2, 1, 3, 2, 3, 1, 4, 3, 5, 2, 5, 3, 4, ... (OEIS A002487), is known as Stern's diatomic series, or the fusc function.

    Associated person

    Herbert Wilf

    Find the right fit or it’s free.

    We guarantee you’ll find the right tutor, or we’ll cover the first hour of your lesson.