Which form of radiation is characterized as being deflected from its path?

The form of radiation characterized as being deflected from its path is scattered radiation. This occurs when primary radiation interacts with matter, such as tissue or dental materials. During this interaction, some of the energy is absorbed while the remaining energy is redirected in different directions, leading to what is referred to as scattered radiation. This type of radiation is important to understand in the context of dental imaging and radiation safety, as it contributes to the overall exposure a patient and dental staff may experience.

Primary radiation refers to the initial beam of radiation emitted from the source, and it has not yet interacted with any matter. Secondary radiation, on the other hand, is emitted from matter after it has absorbed primary radiation; it is a result of the primary radiation's interaction but does not specifically refer to the deflection. Beta radiation is a type of particle radiation associated with the decay of radioactive materials and is not specific to interactions like scattering. Thus, the characteristics of scattered radiation are distinct and significant in the context of radiation physics and safety in dental settings.