CAD capabilities today: Do most modern CAD programs produce only wireframe perspective views, or do they support solid, shaded, and rendered perspectives as well?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Computer-aided design (CAD) has evolved from early wireframe-only systems to robust platforms capable of shaded, rendered, and physically based visualizations. This question checks whether most CAD programs are limited to wireframe perspectives.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Contemporary CAD suites (mechanical, architectural, and general 3D) routinely offer solid modeling and shading.
  • Hidden-line, shaded, and rendered modes are standard; visualization pipelines support textures, lighting, and materials.
  • Even lightweight CAD and viewers provide shaded perspective previews.


Concept / Approach:
Wireframe is just one display mode. Solid and surface modeling tools create closed volumes and surfaces; viewports then display shaded or rendered perspective views. The widespread availability of GPU acceleration and modern graphics APIs means shaded and photoreal views are the norm, not the exception.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize multiple display modes: wireframe, hidden line, shaded, realistic.Identify that perspective projection can be applied to any of these modes.Conclude that saying “most CAD produce only wireframe” is outdated and incorrect.


Verification / Alternative check:
Open any mainstream CAD and toggle viewport styles; shaded perspective and even real-time ray tracing are commonly available.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Attributing the limitation to legacy, lack of GPU, or 2D-only tools does not salvage the blanket statement about “most CAD.”


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing drafting-oriented 2D programs with full 3D CAD; assuming default wireframe equals capability limit.


Final Answer:
Incorrect

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