Programmer's Guide for Subroutine PLOT3D. Physical Processes in Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems, Computer Programs and Graphics Capabilities

Abstract

This module is part of a series designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. PLOT3D is a subroutine package which generates a variety of three-dimensional hidden line Cal Comp-type displays. The package features multiple plots per page, with or without annotation, or annotation without plots; multiple pages; automatic scaling; flexible tilting; two-dimensional interpolation over the image space; choice of size and location of plots on a page; choice of viewing angle and viewing distance; and various options which affect the appearance of the plot. PLOT3D communicates with the calling program through the following: (1) an argument list; (2) common blocks; (3) files; and (4) a set of file manipulation subroutines. An annotated listing illustrates the control, program, and input data cards for a sample run, along with the associated output. (Author/CS)