HTML5 tag

The <radialGradient> HTML5 tag is used to create radial gradients in SVG graphics. It defines a smooth color transition that radiates from a center point outward in a circular pattern, making it perfect for creating lighting effects, shadows, and visual depth in SVG elements.

Syntax

<radialGradient id="gradientId" cx="centerX" cy="centerY" r="radius">
    <stop offset="percentage" style="stop-color:color; stop-opacity:opacity"/>
    <stop offset="percentage" style="stop-color:color; stop-opacity:opacity"/>
</radialGradient>

Key Attributes

  • cx, cy: Center point coordinates of the gradient (default: 50%)
  • r: Radius of the gradient (default: 50%)
  • fx, fy: Focal point coordinates for gradient focus
  • gradientUnits: Coordinate system ("objectBoundingBox" or "userSpaceOnUse")

Example: Radial Gradient Ellipse

This example creates an ellipse with a radial gradient that transitions from transparent gray at the center to solid blue at the edges:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
    <style>
        #svgelem {
            position: relative;
            left: 50%;
            transform: translateX(-40%);
        }
    </style>
    <title>SVG Radial Gradient</title>
    <meta charset="utf-8" />
</head>
<body>
    <h2 align="center">HTML5 SVG Radial Gradient Ellipse</h2>
    <svg id="svgelem" height="200" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">
        <defs>
            <radialGradient id="gradient" cx="50%" cy="50%" r="50%" fx="50%" fy="50%">
                <stop offset="0%" style="stop-color:rgb(200,200,200); stop-opacity:0"/>
                <stop offset="100%" style="stop-color:rgb(0,0,255); stop-opacity:1"/>
            </radialGradient>
        </defs>
        <ellipse cx="100" cy="50" rx="100" ry="50" style="fill:url(#gradient)" />
    </svg>
</body>
</html>

Multiple Color Stops Example

Create more complex gradients using multiple color stops:

<svg height="200" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">
    <defs>
        <radialGradient id="multiGradient" cx="50%" cy="50%" r="80%">
            <stop offset="0%" style="stop-color:yellow; stop-opacity:1"/>
            <stop offset="50%" style="stop-color:orange; stop-opacity:1"/>
            <stop offset="100%" style="stop-color:red; stop-opacity:1"/>
        </radialGradient>
    </defs>
    <circle cx="100" cy="100" r="80" style="fill:url(#multiGradient)" />
</svg>

Comparison: Radial vs Linear Gradients

Feature Radial Gradient Linear Gradient
Direction Circular/Elliptical Straight line
Center Point cx, cy attributes x1, y1, x2, y2 attributes
Use Cases Lighting effects, buttons Backgrounds, borders

Browser Compatibility

The <radialGradient> tag is supported by all modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Internet Explorer 9+. It's part of the SVG 1.1 specification and widely compatible.

Conclusion

The <radialGradient> tag provides powerful gradient capabilities for SVG graphics. Use it with multiple color stops and proper positioning to create visually appealing effects in your web applications.

Updated on: 2026-03-15T23:18:59+05:30

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