Applications use coordinate spaces and transformations to scale, rotate, translate, shear, and reflect graphics output. A coordinate space is a planar space that locates two-dimensional objects by using two reference axes that are perpendicular to each other. There are four coordinate spaces: world, page, device, and physical device (client area, desktop, or page of printer paper).
A transformation is an algorithm that alters ("transforms") the size, orientation, and shape of objects. Transformations also transfer a graphics object from one coordinate space to another. Ultimately, the object appears on the physical device, which is usually a screen or printer.
This chapter is divided into three topics:
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Build date: 11/16/2009