Diffuse maps are textures used in 3D modeling and computer graphics to define the color and appearance of a surface. They determine how light interacts with the surface, affecting its visual characteristics like hue and brightness. By applying a diffuse map, artists can create realistic representations of materials, such as wood, metal, or skin. These maps are typically bitmap images, where each pixel corresponds to a color value. In game development and animation, diffuse maps are essential for enhancing the visual quality of characters and environments, making them more immersive and lifelike in virtual worlds, such as those found in video games or animated films.