Technological advancements in science visualization are described. X-ray crystallography allows scientists to see molecules in 3D by converting diffraction patterns from x-rays hitting crystals into visual maps. Microscopy techniques like light and electron microscopes allow magnification of small objects. Telescopes collect light or radio waves to view distant images. DNA fingerprinting identifies individuals by comparing DNA fragments. Computers process large data amounts and automate tools. Medical imaging techniques like X-rays and MRI produce enhanced soft tissue images. Remote sensing uses GPS, radar, sonar and satellites to detect location and environment. Virtual reality and simulations mimic real-world activities. Holograms produce 3D images using lasers.

1. Technological
Advancements in
SciVis
Guilford County SciVis
V102.02

2. X-ray Crystallography
 When X-rays are beamed
at a crystal, electrons
diffract (bend) the X-rays,
which causes a diffraction
pattern. These patterns
convert into visual maps.
 This process allows
scientists to perceive
molecules in three
dimensions.
 This is a process used to
help discover the
structure of DNA.

3. Microscopy (microscopes)
 Light Microscopes use light
and lenses to magnify small
transparent objects.
 The Electron Microscope was
developed due to the
limitations of Light
Microscopes. Light
Microscopes are limited by the
physics of light to magnify
1,000 times while Electron
Microscopes can magnify up
to 1,000,000 times.

4. Telescopes
 Refracting and reflecting light telescopes collect light
to view distant images.
 Radio telescopes collect radio waves to understand
materials in space.
 Orbiting telescopes eliminate problems associated
with looking through the atmosphere.

5. DNA Fingerprinting
 DNA Fingerprinting is a
method of identification
that compares fragments
of DNA.
 DNA is the genetic
material found within the
cell nucleus.
 With the exception of
identical twins, the
complete DNA of each
individual is unique.

6. DNA Fingerprinting Steps
 A DNA fingerprint is constructed by first
obtaining a DNA sample from body tissue
or fluid.
 The sample is then cut into pieces using
enzymes, and the segments are arranged
by size using a process called gel
electrophoresis.

7. DNA Fingerprinting
 The segments are marked with probes and exposed
on X-ray film, where they form a characteristic pattern
of black bars — the DNA fingerprint.
 If the DNA fingerprints produced from two different
samples match, the two samples probably came from
the same person.

8. DNA Fingerprinting
 DNA fingerprinting technology has
helped scientists to discover the
genetic causes of many disease
processes. Mapping the entire
Human Genome (all of our DNA) has
been one of the most massive
scientific endeavors of all time. The
complete human genome was
completed in 2003.
 DNA fingerprinting helped advance
forensic science and paternity
testing.

9. Computers
 Computers allow for
the manipulation of
large amounts of
data.
 Computers help
automate
machinery, tools,
and processes.
 The Internet allows
for rapid and
widespread
movement of data.

10. Medical imaging
 X-rays are short
wavelengths that penetrate
tissue producing negative
images of bones.
 MRI (Magnetic Resonance
Imaging) is an imaging
technique that uses
magnets in medical settings
to produce computer-
enhanced images of the
soft tissue inside of the
human body.

11. Remote Sensing
 GPS (Global Positioning System)
is a system able to show an exact
position on the earth anytime,
anywhere outside, and in any
weather. The satellites transmit
timed signals that can be detected
by anyone with a GPS receiver.
 Radar and Sonar use
electromagnetic waves to
determine location, position, and
movement of objects.

12. Remote Sensing
 Satellites serve a variety of
purposes from transmission of
television signals to guidance
and tracking systems for
defense. For meteorologists,
satellites provide a
comprehensive view of the
world's weather by observing
weather and the environment
on a scale not possible by other
means.

13. Virtual Reality
 Virtual reality is computer
generated three-
dimensional images that
allow the user to interact
with a virtual world
(computer gaming).
 Simulations mimic real
world activities that may
be dangerous or
impossible to perform by
a human (e.g. flight
simulators).

14. Holograms
 Holograms are three-
dimensional images
produced by multiple
lasers.
 Holograms are used on
credit and bank cards for
theft protection

15. The End