bump maps
A bump map is a texture used in 3D graphics to create the illusion of depth and detail on a surface without adding extra geometry. It works by altering the surface normals, which affects how light interacts with the surface, making it appear more complex and realistic. This technique is commonly used in video games and animations to enhance visual quality while keeping performance efficient.
Bump maps are typically grayscale images, where lighter areas represent raised surfaces and darker areas indicate depressions. They are often used alongside other mapping techniques, such as normal maps and displacement maps, to achieve more intricate visual effects in 3D models.