divergence (redirected from divergences)

divergence

In mathematics, a differential operator applied to a three-dimensional vector-valued function. The result is a function that describes a rate of change. The divergence of a vector v is given by in which v₁, v₂, and v₃ are the vector components of v, typically a velocity field of fluid flow.

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divergence [də′vər·jəns]

(electronics)

The spreading of a cathode-ray stream due to repulsion of like charges (electrons).

(fluid mechanics)

The ratio of the area of any section of fluid emerging from a nozzle to the area of the throat of the nozzle.

(mathematics)

For a vector-valued function, the sum of the diagonal entries of the Jacobian matrix; it is the scalar product of the del operator and the vector.

(meteorology)

The two-dimensional horizontal divergence of the velocity field.

(nucleonics)

In a nuclear reactor, the condition wherein the number of neutrons produced increases in each succeeding generation.

(oceanography)

A horizontal flow of water, in different directions, from a common center or zone.

(physics)

The spreading apart of a beam of particles of light.