1-3 Discussion: OpenGL Variants and UsesDiscussion Topic

First, introduce yourself to the class. Include your major and anything you would like to share about yourself. Then address the prompt below.

OpenGL is an application programming interface (API) that can be used to render both 2D and 3D computational graphics. Before diving in to work with this tool yourself, it is important to have an understanding of where OpenGL can be used and what variants it has. Variants include modern OpenGL, which you will be using throughout this course, and WebGL, which you will see examples from since it is used for web browsers. The applications for both of these are very encompassing, with uses spanning information visualization for businesses, different types of simulations for science and healthcare industries, and even graphics and animations for games.

Begin by reviewing this week's resources to gain a better understanding of OpenGL's variants and uses. Then research and pick a specific example of where OpenGL has been used. Introduce yourself briefly, explain why working with OpenGL could be interesting or useful to you professionally, and then answer the following:

• How is OpenGL used in the example you selected? Are there 2D or 3D graphics? Are there animations?
• Can you tell what variant of OpenGL is used in your example? Why might that variant, or OpenGL in general, be a good choice? Think about OpenGL's capabilities and how they are being leveraged.
• Are there any improvements you would be interested to see this example make, which would incorporate OpenGL?