surface normal

"Surface normals" are essential in fields like computer graphics and physics, where they help define how surfaces interact with light and other objects.

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Definition

C1Physics

(technical)A vector used in calculations involving reflections, collisions, and other surface interactions.

Example

  • In physics, surface normals help calculate the angle of reflection.

C1Geometry

(technical)A vector that is perpendicular to the tangent plane of a surface at a specific point.

Example

  • In geometry, the surface normal helps in defining the orientation of a surface.

C1Computer Graphics

(technical)A vector used to determine the interaction of light with a surface, affecting shading and rendering.

Example

  • Surface normals are crucial for realistic lighting effects in 3D models.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "surface normal":

minimal surface