New approaches to scientific visualization in virtual immersive environments for science and humanities

Virtual environments and 3D visualization have introduced a new element in the process of data analysis, allowing the researcher to observe and perceive information in a more natural way. The structure of a molecule or even only the 3D representation of a physical quantity are examples of how a graphical representation can help understanding the data itself and the subsequent and eventual communication to the public. The use of scientific data is not only a visual act. The fundamental element is to allow the researcher to understand and manipulate information, testing hypotheses and looking for significant results, and that’s the point where the method of interaction becomes critical; with the use of existing human-computer interface systems it all becomes intuitive, functional and simple, allowing a more natural approach. Virtual Reality provides advanced visualization and data manipulation solutions applicable to multiple disciplines related to each other as chemistry and cultural heritage studies. The advent of new mass technologies from smartphones to the Head Mounted Display has allowed to see and manipulate interactive graphic information even for those who practice field research, providing a valuable help to understand and use the data. This thesis will show the fields in which visualization techniques can be applied, particularly in the field of chemistry and cultural goods, referring to case studies developed in recent years.