vpython

VPython, also known as Visual Python, is a Python library for 3D computer graphics and simulations. It is designed to make it easy for beginners to create interactive 3D visualizations and simulations. VPython provides a simple and intuitive way to create 3D objects, manipulate them, and add interactivity to them using Python programming.

Some of the key features of VPython include:

1. Simple 3D Object Creation: VPython allows you to create 3D objects like spheres, boxes, cylinders, and more with just a few lines of Python code.
2. Interactive 3D Graphics: You can easily add interactivity to your 3D scenes by responding to user input, such as mouse clicks and keyboard events.
3. Animations: VPython makes it straightforward to create animations and simulations by updating the positions and properties of objects over time.
4. Integration with Jupyter Notebooks: VPython can be used within Jupyter notebooks, making it a great tool for educational purposes and scientific simulations.
5. Cross-Platform: VPython is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible on various platforms.

Here’s a simple example of VPython code to create a rotating sphere:

from vpython import sphere, vector, rate

# Create a 3D scene
scene = canvas()

# Create a sphere
ball = sphere(pos=vector(0, 0, 0), radius=0.5, color=color.red)

# Animation loop
while True:
    rate(10)  # Limit the frame rate
    ball.rotate(angle=0.02, axis=vector(0, 1, 0))  # Rotate the sphere

In this example, we import the VPython library, create a 3D scene, and then create a red sphere. The while loop continuously rotates the sphere around the y-axis, and the rate(10) function limits the frame rate to 10 frames per second.

VPython is a powerful tool for teaching and learning physics, mathematics, and computer science concepts through interactive 3D visualizations and simulations. It’s commonly used in educational settings and for prototyping simple 3D simulations and models.