the act, fact, or amount of diverging: a divergence in opinion.
(in physics, meteorology, etc.) the total amount of flux escaping an infinitesimal volume at a point in a vector field, as the net flow of air from a given region.
Ophthalmology. a turning motion of the eyeballs outward in relation to each other.
Electronics. the spreading of a stream of electrons resulting from their mutual electrostatic repulsion.
Origin of divergence
From the Medieval Latin word dīvergentia, dating back to 1650–60. See diverge, -ence
the act or result of diverging or the amount by which something diverges
the condition of being divergent
meteorolthe outflowing of airstreams from a particular area, caused by expanding air
maths
the scalar product of the operator, ∇, and a vector function, A, where ∇= i ∂/∂ x + j ∂/∂ y + k ∂/∂ z, and i, j, and k are unit vectors. Usually written: div A, ∇A, or ∇A.See curl (def. 11), gradient (def. 4)
the property of being divergent
the spreading of a stream of electrons as a result of their mutual electrostatic repulsion
the turning of the eyes outwards in order to fixate an object farther away than that previously being fixatedCompare convergence (def. 7)
Also called: divergent evolutionthe evolutionary development of structures or organisms that differ from each other in form and function but have evolved from the same basic structure or organismCompare convergence (def. 5)
MathematicsThe property or manner of failing to approach a limit, such as a point, line, or value.
BiologyThe evolution of different forms or structures in related species as they adapt to different environments. An example of divergence is the development of wings in bats from the same bones that form the arm and hand or paw in most other mammals. Also called divergent evolution Compare convergence.
