Animated Illustrations

Illustrations help explain scientific concepts and information that can be hard to grasp through words alone. Static (non-moving) illustrations employ interpretive devices, such as arrows and motion lines, to indirectly convey concepts about change over time. An animated illustration changes form over time, through the use of multiple frames played in rapid succession. An animated illustration simplifies and clarifies a scientific visualization, making it more vivid, engaging, and easy to understand.

Explore these examples like a Scientist and a Designer: What does each one do? How is it made? Read the 'Producer Notes' for insights. Tackle the 'Try This' challenges to learn key programming and design techniques.

Feeling Creative? 'Donate' your own Global Climate animated illustration to the MySLife site.

Good at explaining? Donate a tutorial to accompany one of these animated illustrations.

Need work done? Donate a proposal for an animated illustration you would like a MyGLife student to work on.

Hydroelectric Power
How hydroelectric power plant uses a dam to control the flow of a river

Wind Energy
How towering wind turbines generate power from the steady higher-up winds

Geothermal District Heating
How geothermal district heating pumps work

Nuclear Effect
How a nuclear power works


Previous participants work

Wave Energy
How waves can turn a generator

Created by: Cwwan
River Diversion
An illustration of the effects of river diversion

Created by: Bing