Physics Of Animation

In the multi-billion dollar movie and video game industry, making animations come to life is a crucial and revered skill. It takes a solid understanding of physics. For example, animators need to know things like how to cast shadows, how to direct the movement of their characters, and how objects, such as motorcycles, should maneuver. With support from the National Science Foundation, San Jose State University Physicist Alejandro Garcia has developed a course in physics for animators and artists. He is also spending a semester as a consultant for animators at DreamWorks Studio in northern California.