DEFLECTION

1. A change in the direction of a traveling particle, usually without loss of particle kinetic energy, representing a change in velocity without a change in the scalar speed of the particle. 2. A change in the direction of a wave, beam , electron, or other entity, such as might be accomplished by an electric or magnetic field . Note: If the deflection is caused by a prism ( refraction ), a mirror ( reflection ), or optical grating ( diffraction ), the specific applicable term should be used. [ From Weik '89 ]