# computer graphics

> sub-field of computer science

**Wikidata**: [Q150971](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q150971)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_graphics_(computer_science))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/computer-graphics

## Summary
Computer graphics is a sub-field and branch of computer science that deals with generating images with the aid of computers. As a formal field of study, it encompasses the creation and manipulation of visual content, ranging from scientific representations like molecular graphics to applications in fine art and video games.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Computer graphics is classified as a sub-field and branch of computer science.
- **Parent Fields:** It is considered part of the broader fields of computer science and "graphics, augmented reality and games."
- **Practitioners:** Professionals in this field are known as computer graphics designers or graphicers.
- **Specialized Areas:** The field includes numerous sub-disciplines, such as information visualization, procedural texture generation, and molecular graphics.
- **ACM Classification Code:** The 2012 ACM classification code for computer graphics is 10010371.
- **Library of Congress ID:** The Library of Congress Authority ID for the subject is sh85029500.
- **Online Communities:** Dedicated online communities include the subreddits 'computergraphics' and 'GraphicsProgramming', as well as a dedicated Stack Exchange site.

## FAQs
### Q: What field of study is computer graphics part of?
A: Computer graphics is a sub-field and branch of computer science. It is also considered part of the broader research area of "graphics, augmented reality and games."

### Q: What are some examples of computer graphics techniques?
A: A specific technique mentioned in the source material is parallax scrolling, where background images move slower than foreground images to create an illusion of depth in a 2D scene and enhance immersion.

### Q: What are some sub-fields within computer graphics?
A: Specialized areas related to computer graphics include information visualization (the study of visual representations of information), procedural texture (algorithmically generated textures), and molecular graphics (representing molecules and their properties).

## Why It Matters
Computer graphics is significant because it provides the tools and methods to translate abstract data and computational processes into visual forms. This capability is crucial across a vast range of industries and academic disciplines. In science and engineering, it enables complex simulations and data visualization, such as representing molecular structures. In entertainment, it is the foundation for video games, animated films, and special effects, using techniques like parallax scrolling to create immersive virtual experiences.

The field also drives innovation in marketing through the creation of virtual influencers and powers digital asset management and design software like Corel Designer. As a formal branch of computer science, it has a robust academic foundation, with dedicated researchers and classification systems like the ACM code (10010371). By bridging the gap between computation and human perception, computer graphics makes information more accessible, engaging, and useful.

## Notable For
- **Broad Academic Discipline:** It is formally recognized as a branch of computer science with its own ACM classification code, Library of Congress subject heading, and a large body of academic practitioners.
- **Diverse Applications:** The field's applications span scientific visualization (molecular graphics), fine art (Photoart), marketing (virtual influencers), and business publishing (RagTime software).
- **Creation of Immersive Experiences:** It encompasses specific techniques, such as parallax scrolling, explicitly designed to create an illusion of depth and enhance the user's sense of immersion in a virtual environment.
- **Procedural Content Generation:** Computer graphics includes specialized sub-fields like procedural texture, which focuses on generating complex graphical textures algorithmically, a key component in creating detailed virtual worlds efficiently.

## Body
### ### Classification and Identity
Computer graphics is defined as a sub-field and branch of computer science. It is formally recognized as a "field of study." The field has numerous identifiers across different cataloging and authority systems:
- **GND ID:** 4010450-3
- **Library of Congress Authority ID:** sh85029500
- **ACM Classification Code (2012):** 10010371
- **ANZSRC 2020 FOR ID:** 460702
- **Classification of Instructional Programs Code:** 11.0803
- **Aliases:** The field is also known as CG, infographique, and image de synthese.

### ### Scope and Sub-fields
Computer graphics is a component of the larger research area of "graphics, augmented reality and games." It serves as a parent field to several more specialized disciplines:
- **Information Visualization:** The study of visual representations of abstract information.
- **Molecular Graphics:** The use of computer graphics to represent molecules and their properties.
- **Procedural Texture:** The creation of textures using algorithmic procedures rather than static images.
- **Block Graphics:** A specific type of computer graphics.
- **Virtual Influencer:** The creation of computer-generated characters for social media marketing.

### ### Related Technologies and Software
The principles of computer graphics are applied in various techniques and software tools:
- **Techniques:**
    - **Parallax Scrolling:** A technique used to create an illusion of depth in 2D scenes.
    - **Split Screen:** A display technique often used in video games.
- **Software:**
    - **Corel Designer:** Graphics software.
    - **JasPer:** A software implementation of the JPEG-2000 standard.
    - **Cumulus:** Digital asset management software.
    - **RagTime:** Frame-oriented business publishing software.

### ### Notable Practitioners
The field is advanced by numerous academics and researchers, many of whom are identified as computer scientists and university teachers. Notable individuals associated with the field include:
- Norman I. Badler
- Brian Wyvill
- Richard Franklin Riesenfeld
- Morgan McGuire
- Philip Dutré
- Mark Pauly
- Pierre Alliez

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## References

1. YSO-Wikidata mapping project
2. BabelNet
3. Quora
4. [Source](https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/DetailsPage/1297.02008?OpenDocument)
5. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
6. [Source](https://vocabs.ardc.edu.au/viewById/316)
7. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)
8. Wikibase TDKIV