What are Virtual and Augmented Realities?

Virtual reality portrays an environment that is completely virtual.  Technology such as headsets and computers create these virtual worlds and allow for a very immersive experience.  Items may resemble real world elements or be completely fictional.  The foundation of VR is digital and digital concepts are applied to this existing virtual environment.  Gaming is a great example and use of VR.

Augmented reality takes virtual elements and integrates them with a real world surrounding.  It could be said that AR is a digitally enhanced real world.  Digital items overlay real world items for a very unique experience.  Education institutions and the medical field can benefit for inputting digital situations in a real world environment without the drawback of failed results.   

What are Virtual and Augmented Realities?