Generalizations of Leaky Forcing

Abstract

Vertex leaky forcing was recently introduced as a new variation of zero forcing in order to show how vertex leaks can disrupt the zero forcing process in a graph. An edge leak is an edge that is not allowed to be forced across during the zero forcing process. The $\ell$-edge-leaky forcing number of a graph is the size of a smallest zero forcing set that can force the graph blue despite $\ell$ edge leaks. This paper contains an analysis of the effect of edge leaks on the zero forcing process instead of vertex leaks. Furthermore, specified $\ell$-leaky forcing is introduced. The main result is that $\ell$-leaky forcing, $\ell$-edge-leaky forcing, and specified $\ell$-leaky forcing are equivalent. Furthermore, all of these different kinds of leaks can be mixed so that vertex leaks, edge leaks, and specified leaks are used. This mixed $\ell$-leaky forcing number is also the same as the (vertex) $\ell$-leaky forcing number.