Which shader feature allows for realistic lighting and shading effects on 3D models?

The correct answer is centered around the use of normal maps and bump mapping, both of which enhance the realism of lighting and shading on 3D models.

Normal maps contribute by allowing textures to convey the illusion of intricate surface details without increasing the polygon count of the model. This is achieved through the manipulation of surface normals, which affects how light interacts with the surface. When light hits a surface, the normals determine the angle at which it reflects, therefore altering the shading and creating the appearance of depth and complexity based on the detail captured in the normal map.

Bump mapping, on the other hand, utilizes a grayscale image to create a similar effect. This technique modifies the surface's normals dynamically, causing light and shadow to play over the surface in a way that mimics the presence of bumps and indentations. While bump mapping can add a sense of texture, normal maps typically provide a more detailed and visually rich result.

By using both of these techniques, developers can create more visually appealing and realistic environments in their games, making these shader features essential for achieving high-quality graphics. Color grading, while important for mood and visual storytelling, does not directly affect the 3D model's interaction with light in the same way that normal maps and bump