What occurs when one traffic stream separates into two streams?

When one traffic stream separates into two streams, this process is called diverging. Diverging refers to the action of traffic moving away from a common point, resulting in two distinct paths for the vehicles. It typically occurs at intersections, forks in the road, or where a single lane splits into two lanes. This can help manage traffic flow more effectively by allowing vehicles to choose their direction without congestion.

The term diverging is specifically used in traffic engineering to describe this phenomenon and is associated with the design of roadways and intersections to enhance safety and efficiency. Understanding how diverging works is crucial for traffic planners and engineers to optimize traffic patterns and reduce the potential for accidents as vehicles transition from converging paths into separate lanes.