Ray tracing is a computer graphics rendering technique that uses mathematical models to simulate the behavior of light in a virtual scene. This allows for creating of highly realistic images and animations that accurately depict how light behaves in the real world.
The ray tracing begins by casting a virtual ray of light from the viewer's perspective into the scene. This virtual ray of light then intersects with the 3D objects in the scene, and the software calculates how the light is reflected, refracted, or absorbed by each object.
For example, if the virtual ray of light hits a shiny object, the software will calculate how the light is reflected off the object's surface, creating a realistic-looking highlight. If the virtual ray of light hits a transparent object, the software will calculate how the light is refracted or bent as it passes through the object, creating a realistic-looking distortion.
The software then continues to trace the path of the virtual ray of light as it bounces around the scene, calculating how it is affected by each object it encounters. This allows for the creation of highly realistic images that accurately depict how light behaves in a scene, including how it creates shadows, reflections, and refractions.
Overall, ray tracing is a powerful rendering technique that allows for creating of highly realistic images and animations. By accurately simulating the behavior of light in a virtual scene, ray tracing enables the creation of visuals that closely match how light behaves in the real world.
