The definition of an animation
An animation is a series of individual images that create the illusion of flowing movements, usually at 25 or 30 images per second. In a 3D-based animation These images are produced by digitally created movement sequences of models, cameras and/or particles through keyframes, simulations or a combination of these. Animations can be exported to various formats, e.g. to a video format (mp4) or to a GIF or Lottie file.
What are keyframes?
Keyframes are individual poses and positions of a 3D model at a specific point in time. Transitions between these are then automatically calculated. The animation is then created using a rig — a type of skeleton with individually movable joints within a 3D model — or simple movements of the 3D model and/or camera movement from one point to another in 3D space.
What is a simulation?
Simulation is the physically calculated movement sequences of a 3D model or individual particles while they are influenced by gravity, wind, air resistance and the like. The product properties of the simulated object, such as weight, density, flexibility and much more, also play a decisive role. Simulation is often used for substances, hair, water, fire, gases and other organic, flowing materials. Chain reactions, such as collapsing buildings, explosions, falling objects, etc. are also popular scenarios in which simulation is used.
