In a smoke particle system, which property is responsible for changing the color from dense black to semi-transparent gray and finally to white?

The property that dictates how the color of particles in a smoke particle system transitions over time is handled by the Color over Lifetime setting. This feature allows developers to define a gradient of colors that particles will undergo throughout their lifespan, effectively allowing the smoke to change from a rich, dense black when first emitted, to a lighter, semi-transparent gray as it dissipates, and finally to white as it disperses into the surrounding environment.

Using this technique, one can manipulate the visual appearance of particles based on their age, contributing to a more realistic and dynamic representation of smoke. Color over Lifetime often utilizes a gradient ramp where the colors at the start can be set to black and progress through shades of gray to white, thereby enhancing immersion in the game environment.

In contrast, properties like Start Color and Initial Color specify the color when the particle is first created, without accounting for changes during its lifetime. Color Gradients might sound similar, but in the context of Unity’s particle system, they might refer to different functionality, such as 2D hues or color keys without explicit ties to the duration of particle lifespan in the same dynamic way.