[Math] $\{0,1\}$-matrix and permutation matrices

combinatoricsgraph theorymatricespermutations

A permutation matrix is a square matrix with exactly one $\textbf{1}$ in each row and column, and zeros in all other positions of the matrix. Let $M$ be an $n\times n$ $\{0,1\}$-matrix with exactly $m$ ones in each row and column. Prove that $M$ can be written as the sum of $m$ permutation matrices.

I saw my lecturer about this problem and the hint he gave me was to think about decompositions of bipartite graphs into perfect matchings.

For the life of me I don't really understand what he means by that nor do I even know how to get started on the question.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Best Answer

Here's a proof that a regular bipartite graph has a perfect matching: Show that a finite regular bipartite graph has a perfect matching.

Your matrix corresponds to an $m$-regular bipartite graph in which the rows and the columns form the two vertex classes and the ones determine the edges. A perfect matching is a matching in which every vertex is incident to exactly one edge of the matching. This corresponds to a permutation matrix, and subtracting out this matrix leaves $m-1$ ones in each row and column.

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