Learn VPython programming through this comprehensive video tutorial series that covers fundamental programming concepts and 3D visualization techniques for scientific computing. Master basic Python operations including variables, functions, loops, and conditional statements while exploring VPython's unique capabilities for creating interactive 3D graphics and animations. Develop skills in mathematical computations, random number generation, vector operations, and data visualization through hands-on examples. Explore advanced topics such as 3D shape creation (spheres, cylinders, cones, helixes), animation techniques, collision detection, camera controls, and graphing functions. Build practical applications including scientific simulations, data import from external tools like Tracker, texture mapping, lighting effects, and interactive widgets. Progress from basic calculator operations to complex 3D visualizations, surface plots, and advanced curve generation while learning debugging techniques and performance optimization strategies throughout the 61-episode series.

Syllabus

VPython for Beginners 1 - Using VPython as a Calculator
VPython for Beginners 2 - Variables
VPython for Beginners 3 - Making Shapes
VPython for Beginners 4 - Animating with Loops
Answers for VPython - Round 1, Ep 1 Animating with Time
Answers for VPython - Round 1, Ep 2 - Animation Options
Answers for VPython - Round 1, Ep 3 Making Graphs
Answers for VPython - Round 1, Ep 4 Using Lists
VPython for Beginners 5 - Basic Random Numbers
VPython for Beginners 6 - Defining Functions
VPython for Beginners 7 - Normal Distribution
VPython for Beginners 8 - Scientific Notation and Rounding
VPython for Beginners 9 - If Blocks
VPython for Beginners 10 - Animating With If Blocks
VPython for Beginners 11 - Debugging
VPython for Beginners 12 - Int and Modulus
VPython for Beginners 13 - Built-In Functions I (absolute value, sqrt, power, trig)
VPython for Beginners 14 - Built-In Functions II (exponential, logarithm, rounding, max, min)
VPython for Beginners 15 - Vector Functions I (mag, hat, dot, cross)
VPython for Beginners 16 - Strings and Labels
VPython for Beginners 17 - Classes in Python
VPython for Beginners 18 - Global Variables in Python
VPython for Beginners 19 - Logical Variables in Python
VPython for Beginners 20 - Random Integer Generator
VPython for Beginners 21 - Curves in VPython
VPython for Beginners 22 - Cylinders and Cones in VPython
VPython for Beginners 23 - Helixes and Springs in VPython
VPython for Beginners 24 - 2D Shapes and Extrusions
VPython for Beginners 25 - Logarithmic Scales
VPython for Beginners 26 - Gears and Rotations
VPython for Beginners 27 - Clones and Compounds
VPython for Beginners 28 - Ellipses and Ellipsoids
VPython for Beginners 29 - Basic Camera Controls
VPython for Beginners 30 - Evaluating Code Performance
VPython for Beginners 31 - Multiple Canvases
VPython for Beginners 32 - Collision Detection
SPACE BACKGROUND!
VPython for Beginners 33 - Trails and Arrows
VPython for Beginners 34 - Deleting Graphical Objects
VPython for Beginners 35 - Color and Opacity
VPython for Beginners 36 Graphs
VPython for Beginners 37 - Advanced Graphs
VPython for Beginners 38 - 3D Text
VPython for Beginners 39 - Points
VPython for Beginners 40 - Pyramids
VPython for Beginners 41 - Vertex, Triangle, and Quad
VPython for Beginners 42 - Importing Data from Tracker
Importing Data from VPython (Tracker for Beginners 8)
VPython for Beginners 43 - Quick Functions - Make Axes
VPython for Beginners 44 - Quick Functions - Make Grid
VPython for Beginners 45 - Quick Functions - Make Globe
VPython for Beginners 46 - Arrows
VPython for Beginners 47 - Screen Capture
VPython for Beginners 48 - Textures
VPython for Beginners 49 - Rate and dt
VPython for Beginners 50 - More 2D Shapes
Roller Coasters in VPython
VPython for Beginners 51 - Advanced Extrusions
VPython for Beginners 52 - Play/Pause Button
VPython for Beginners 53 - Advanced Lists
VPython for Beginners 54 - Widgets
VPython for Beginners 55 - Surface Plots
VPython for Beginners 56 - Input Files
VPython for Beginners 57 - Rotating Vectors
VPython for Beginners 58 - Bounding Box
VPython for Beginners 59 - Lighting
VPython for Beginners 60 - Advanced Curves
VPython for Beginners 61 - Rings