Map

Definition: A map is an image file used in computer modeling and animation to create the illusion of realistic textures on 3D rendered surfaces. This process is called mapping. Maps can have many functions and many layers; for instance, a color/pattern/texture map can be a detailed image or texture such as posters mapped onto a room's wall or hide mapped onto a dinosaur. Bump maps, layered underneath texture maps, will give the 3D rendering program direction on how to create additional visible raised textures based on the scales of grey in the map. Many other types of maps can be used to create interesting effects and realistic textures.