divergence

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 divergence of a vector "v" in which v1, v2, and v3 are the vector components of v, typically a velocity field of fluid flow. in which v1, v2, and v3 are the vector components of v, typically a velocity field of fluid flow.

This article was most recently revised and updated by William L. Hosch.
Citation Information
Article Title: divergence
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 18 February 2025
Access Date: March 14, 2025