Displacement mapping in 3D texturing modifies a model’s surface geometry by displacing vertices based on a grayscale texture, creating actual physical depth (e.g., bumps, indentations) by adjusting vertex positions—unlike normal mapping, which only simulates depth visually via lighting.
- **Core role**: It adds tangible surface relief, making textures physically accurate rather than just visually convincing. - **Typical applications**: Used for terrain, rocks, or organic materials in gaming, film, and product visualization to boost realism and immersion. - **Key consideration**: Requires higher polygon counts to ensure displaced surfaces appear smooth, unlike normal mapping which works on lower-poly models.