A 3D model is a digital representation of a physical object or scene created using specialized software. It consists of points in three-dimensional space, which are connected to form a mesh. This mesh can be textured and colored to resemble real-world objects, making it useful in various fields such as animation, gaming, and architecture. 3D models can be created from scratch or generated from real-world objects using techniques like 3D scanning. They are commonly used in industries like film, where they help create visual effects, and in product design, where they allow for virtual prototyping before manufacturing.