moirekuvioina

Moiré patterns are large-scale interference patterns created when a line or grid pattern is superimposed on another with a similar pattern at an angle or with a different scale. The term "moiré" originates from the French word for a type of watered silk fabric, which often displays a similar visual effect. These patterns arise from the phenomenon of optical interference, where the superimposed lines or dots create new, often wavy or complex, visual structures that are not present in either of the original patterns.

The appearance of moiré patterns is highly dependent on the relative orientation, spacing, and size of the underlying patterns. Even slight shifts or rotations can dramatically alter the resulting moiré effect. This sensitivity makes them useful in various applications, such as in security printing where subtle moiré patterns can be used to detect counterfeits. They can also be observed in digital imaging, particularly when photographing screens or closely spaced patterns, where aliasing can lead to unintended moiré formation.

While often considered an artifact or an unwanted visual effect in fields like photography and printing, moiré patterns can also be intentionally designed and exploited for artistic or technical purposes. Their distinctive visual nature has led to their use in art, textiles, and even in scientific instruments for precise measurements. The underlying principle of interference allows for the creation of intricate and dynamic visual experiences from simple repeating elements.