Description: The ‘Face Normal’ is a vector that is perpendicular to the surface of a face in a 3D model. This vector is fundamental in graphical representation and in simulating lighting in three-dimensional environments. Its direction determines how light reflects off the surface, influencing the visual appearance of the object. Technically, the normal is calculated from the vertices that make up the face, using the cross product of two vectors representing two of its edges. This allows for obtaining a vector that points outward from the surface, which is crucial for effects like shading and lighting. Additionally, normals are essential in collision detection and in the physics of objects, as they help define how 3D models interact with each other and their environment. In summary, the face normal is not just a mathematical concept, but also plays a vital role in creating realistic visual experiences in computer graphics.
