scattering
verb
Definitions
To (cause to) separate and go in different directions; to disperse.
Example: The crowd scattered in terror.
To distribute loosely as by sprinkling.
Example: Her ashes were scattered at the top of a waterfall.
To deflect (radiation or particles).
To occur or fall at widely spaced intervals.
noun
Definitions
A small quantity of something occurring at irregular intervals and dispersed at random points,
Example: There will be a scattering of showers, with heavy rain in places.
(elections) The total number of votes awarded to nonmajor or unlisted candidates.
The process whereby a beam of waves or particles is dispersed by collisions or similar interactions.