Hi Stephen,
trees and graph both are non-linear data structures, but both have different rules and structures.
Here is the exact difference between a Tree and a Graph:
| Feature | Tree Data Structure | Graph Data Structure |
| Basic Structure | It is a Hierarchical model (like a boss and employees). | It is a Network model (like a web of connected cities). |
| Root Node | A tree always has exactly one Root Node at the top. | A graph does not have any root node. All nodes are treated equally. |
| Loops & Cycles | A tree cannot have any loops or cycles. | A graph can have loops and cycles. |
| Rules of Connection | There is exactly one path between any two nodes. | There can be multiple paths between any two nodes. |
| Real-Life Example | Folder structure in your computer, Family Tree, or Company hierarchy. | Google Maps (finding routes between cities), Facebook Friends network. |