Path Tracing
Path tracing is a computer graphics rendering technique that simulates the physical behavior of light to generate photorealistic images. It works by tracing the paths of light rays as they bounce around a scene, accounting for effects like reflection, refraction, and global illumination. This method is widely used in film production, architectural visualization, and scientific simulations due to its accuracy in modeling light transport.
Developers should learn path tracing when working on applications requiring high-fidelity visual realism, such as in movie visual effects, video game rendering, or architectural design tools. It is essential for achieving physically accurate lighting, shadows, and materials, making it a core skill in fields like 3D animation, virtual reality, and advanced graphics research. Use cases include rendering engines for films (e.g., Pixar's RenderMan) and real-time graphics in next-gen gaming.