4D: what is it?

There are only three dimensions in our everyday life. You can find out what 4D is in this practical tip.

4D - the four-dimensional space

• The three-dimensional space is known. You know this from everyday life. You can describe each point in 3D by specifying the length, width and depth. In the sketch on the right you can see how a point is clearly defined in the coordinate system by its values ​​for x, y and z.
• If a dimension is added to this three-dimensional space, 4D is created. For such a room, however, the intuitive view fails because the position of an object is revealed in three dimensions alone.
• In physics, time is often used as the fourth dimension. This results in space-time in Albert Einstein's theory of relativity.

Movies in 4D

According to the definition for 4D above, four-dimensional films seem very strange. However, when you hear about a 4D movie, it does not mean an expanded location space.

• 4D films should integrate you even more into the film. For example, artificial rain and wind are generated or the cinema seats vibrate.
• The actual film is shown in 3D, or else in 2D.
• 4D films are shown in certain 4D cinemas that have devices for additional effects - the "fourth dimension".
• Another addition is for 5D films. Here, fragrances are released in suitable places in the cinema.

If you prefer to watch the films in the comfort of your own home, read our comparison of the online video stores Maxdome, Watchever and Lovefilm.