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VertexNormals

VertexNormals
is an option for graphics primitives which specifies the normal directions to assign to 3D vertices.

MORE INFORMATION

VertexNormals can be used with Polygon, Line, Point and GraphicsComplex.

VertexNormals->{n₁, n₂, ...} specifies that vertex i should have effective normal n_i for purposes of shading by simulated lighting.

The n_i are vectors of the form {v_x, v_y, v_z}. Only the directions of these vectors ever matter; the vectors are in effect automatically normalized to unit length.

VertexNormals->None specifies that no explicit vertex normals are being given, and normal directions should be deduced from the actual coordinates specified for vertices. For point and line-like primitives, no shading based on simulated lighting should be done.

VertexNormals->Automatic is equivalent to VertexNormals->None, except that vertex normals given in any enclosing GraphicsComplex will be used.

Basic Examples (1)

Compute normal vectors using the cross product of edge vectors:

A triangle with normals pointing in the direction

Using different normals will affect shading:

Specify vertex normals for 3D lines:

Specify vertex normals for 3D points:

Applications (3)

VertexColors NormalsFunction Polygon

3D Graphics Options

Colors

Polygons

Summary of New Features in 7.0

New in 6.0: Graphics & Visualization Options

New in 6.0: Graphics Primitives & Directives

New in 6

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