3D computer graphics: Difference between revisions

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{{dablink|This article is about process of creating 3D computer graphics. For information on the study of computer graphics, see [[Computer graphics]]}}

'''3D computer graphics''' (in contrast to [[2D computer graphics]]) are graphics that use a [[Cartesian coordinate system#Three-dimensional coordinate system|three-dimensional]] representation of geometric data that is stored in the computer for the purposes of performing calculations and rendering 2D images. Such images may be for later display or for real-time viewing. Despite these differences, 3D computer graphics rely on many of the same [[algorithm]]s as 2D computer [[vector graphics]] in the [[wire -frame model]] and 2D computer [[raster graphics]] in the final rendered display. In computer graphics software, the distinction between 2D and 3D is occasionally blurred; 2D applications may use 3D techniques to achieve effects such as lighting, and primarily 3D may use 2D rendering techniques.

3D computer graphics are often referred to as [[3D modeling|3D models]]. Apart from the rendered graphic, the model is contained within the graphical data file. However, there are differences. A 3D model is the [[Mathematics|mathematical]] representation of any [[Three-dimensional space|three-dimensional]] object (either inanimate or living). A model is not technically a graphic until it is visually displayed. Due to [[3D printing]], 3D models are not confined to virtual space. A model can be displayed visually as a two-dimensional image through a process called ''[[3D rendering]],'' or used in non-graphical [[computer simulation]]s and calculations.

==Overview==