Subdivision surfaces are a technique in computer graphics used to create smooth surfaces from a coarse mesh of polygons. This method involves repeatedly refining the mesh by averaging the positions of vertices, which results in a smoother and more detailed surface. It is widely used in 3D modeling and animation to produce high-quality shapes with minimal manual effort. The process of subdivision can be applied to various types of geometric shapes, including triangles and quads. Popular algorithms for subdivision surfaces include Catmull-Clark and Loop schemes, which are named after their developers. These algorithms help artists and designers achieve complex forms while maintaining a manageable base mesh.