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Python is a powerful programming language that's easy to learn and fun to play with. But once you've gotten a handle on the basics, what do you do next? Python Playground is a collection of imaginative programming projects that will inspire you to use Python to make art and music, build simulations of real-world phenomena, and interact with hardware like the Arduino and Raspberry Pi. You'll learn to use common Python tools and libraries like numpy, matplotlib, and pygame to do things like: -Generate Spirograph-like patterns using parametric equations and the turtle module -Create music on your computer by simulating frequency overtones -Translate graphical images into art -Write an autostereogram program that produces 3D images hidden beneath random patterns -Make realistic animations with OpenGL shaders by exploring particle systems, transparency, and billboarding techniques -Construct 3D visualizations using data from CT and MRI scans -Build a laser show that responds to music by hooking up your computer to an Arduino Programming shouldn't be a chore. Have some solid, geeky fun with Python Playground . The projects in this book are compatible with both Python 2 and 3.
List of contents
Part 1: Warming Up
Chapter 1: Parsing iTunes Playlists
Chapter 2: Spirographs
Part 2: Simulating Life
Chapter 3: Conway's Game of Life
Chapter 4: Generating Musical Overtones with the Karplus-Strong Algorithm
Chapter 5: Boids: Simulating a Flock
Part 3: Fun with Images
Chapter 6: ASCII Art
Chapter 7: Photomosaics
Chapter 8: Autostereograms
Part 4: Enter 3D
Chapter 9: Understanding OpenGL
Chapter 10: Particle Systems
Chapter 11: Volume Rendering
Part 5: Hardware Hacking
Chapter 12: Introduction to Arduino
Chapter 13: Laser Audio Display
Chapter 14: A Raspberry Pi-based Weather Monitor
Appendix A: Software Installation
Appendix B: Basic Practical Electronics
Appendix C: Raspberry Pi Tips & Tricks
Report
"If you want to become adept at doing clever things with Python, I doubt you'll find a better group of projects or more useful help for understanding how the language works."
Network World
"This is a book that belongs in every Python programmer's library."
Full Circle Magazine
"Packed with interesting projects."
iProgrammer
"Python Playground targets programmers who want to further improve their skills and knowledge of the language. The book does a good job of explaining all relevant details and makes sure that readers get a clear picture of what is going on."
InfoQ
