Parallax
(noun)
- The difference in the apparent position of an object viewed from two different positions.
- An apparent shift in position or direction of an object, caused by a change in the position or direction of the observer.
- The effect of perspective that creates an illusion of depth in a two-dimensional image.
Origin:
The term 'parallax' comes from the greek word 'parallaxis' which means 'alteration'. it was first used in astronomy in the 19th century to describe the apparent change in position of a celestial object due to a change in the observer's position.
Examples:
- The parallax of the moon as seen from different parts of the earth causes it to appear to move in the sky.
- By measuring the parallax of distant stars, astronomers can calculate their distances from earth.
- The parallax of the closer object was much greater, making it appear to move more quickly as the observer changed position.
- In computer graphics, parallax scrolling is a technique used to create a sense of depth in a two-dimensional image.
- The parallax of the buildings in the city created an illusion of depth, making the scene look more realistic.