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Image Matrix Visualizer

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Edit the Image Matrix Visualizer with the p5.js editor

About This MicroSim

This MicroSim demonstrates the fundamental concept that digital images are stored as matrices of numbers. Each cell in the matrix represents a pixel, with values from 0 (black) to 255 (white).

How to Use

  1. Select an Image Pattern: Use the dropdown to choose from:
  2. Checkerboard: Alternating black and white pixels
  3. Gradient: Values increasing from left to right
  4. Simple Shape: A circular pattern with varying intensities

  5. Random: Randomly generated pixel values

  6. Zoom: Adjust the slider to enlarge or reduce the image display

  7. Hover Interaction: Move your mouse over either the image or matrix to highlight the corresponding cell in both views

  8. Edit Mode: Click "Enable Edit Mode" to modify individual pixel values by clicking on matrix cells

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to: - Understand that digital images are stored as matrices of numbers - Connect pixel intensity values (0-255) to visual brightness - Recognize how matrix dimensions correspond to image resolution - Modify pixel values and observe the visual result

Lesson Plan

Introduction (5 minutes)

Explain that every digital image is fundamentally a grid of numbers. Each number represents how bright that tiny square (pixel) should be displayed.

Exploration (10 minutes)

  1. Start with the Checkerboard pattern - ask students what values they expect for black vs. white pixels
  2. Switch to Gradient - observe how values increase from 0 to 255
  3. Try Random - see how arbitrary values create noise-like patterns

Interactive Exercise (10 minutes)

  1. Enable Edit Mode
  2. Challenge students to create simple patterns (diagonal line, border, letter shape)
  3. Discuss: What's the smallest value change you can perceive?

Discussion Questions

  • Why do computers use numbers 0-255? (Hint: 8 bits = 256 values)
  • What would a 1000x1000 pixel image require for storage?
  • How might color images differ from grayscale?

References