graphics

Graphics is the visual representation of information or ideas. It encompasses manual illustration as well as digital images and animations produced by computers. The field includes graphic design, illustration, data visualization, and computer graphics, where mathematical models, algorithms, and hardware aim to produce recognizable visual output.

Graphics can be categorized as raster (bitmap) or vector. Raster graphics represent images as a grid of pixels and are resolution-dependent; common formats include JPEG, PNG, and GIF. Vector graphics describe images with mathematical shapes and are scalable without loss of quality; common formats include SVG and EPS.

In 2D graphics, images are created on a plane and may involve color models such as RGB for screens and CMYK for print. 3D graphics simulate three-dimensional space through geometry, shading, lighting, textures, and perspective, often rendered by a graphics processing unit (GPU).

The rendering pipeline for computer graphics typically includes modeling, texturing, shading, lighting, and finally rasterization or ray tracing to produce a displayable image. Real-time graphics emphasize efficient algorithms for interactivity, while offline rendering prioritizes photorealism.

Applications span video games, film and animation, UI and web design, scientific visualization, mapping, and education. Graphics standards and file formats cover image, vector, and 3D data, with considerations for compression, color management, and interoperability.

The history of graphics includes advances from early vector displays to modern GPUs and shading languages, supporting increasingly complex visual representations across media and devices.