CGI simulation using thousands of points to create fire, smoke, sparks, and similar effects.
Definition
Particle Effects simulate complex phenomena using thousands to millions of individual particles with their own properties and behavior rules. Basis for fire, smoke, water, sparks, dust.
Practical Application
Explosions, magical effects, weather phenomena, organic systems. Houdini dominates for film VFX, After Effects/Cinema 4D for motion graphics.
Technical Details
Emitters define spawn properties. Forces (gravity, wind, turbulence) influence movement. Collisions with geometry. Rendering as Points, Sprites, Geometry, or Volumes.
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