An Optical illusion is defined as an optical observable fact or phenomenon resulting in a deceptive visual feeling but in reality, the subject does not alter or change. An Optical illusion, also called visual illusion, in reality entails visual deception. Since, there is an array of images, outcome of colors; collision of light source an extensive assortment of confusing visual effects can be perceived.
True basis of optical illusions
Truly, optical illusions can be both amusing and attention-grabbing but at the same time, these show the extent to which the brain can perceive and conceive things in different manners.
Reality of optical illusions
Optical illusions are in fact, a true or even a quasi-true picture of an object. Lots of optical illusions do take place around people almost on a daily basis. People tend to perceive these images as optical illusions. Some optical illusions will distort the size, length, height, width and other physical characteristics of an object.
Reasons for optical illusions
Lots of reasons can be cited. Nevertheless, the main reason is the way that the illusions are perceived by the brain. Since the interpretation by a person of the same image is different from that of another, it is actually the past experience and the current reference. According to scientists, optical illusions are a product of our social conditioning and the culture that we belong to.
Can the eye be the cause of optical illusions?
In accordance with a group of researchers, above all eye happens to be the foremost source behind optical illusions. Even though many find it difficult to digest this theory, modern researchers show that this might be true as well. This happens, especially whenever an individual has eye movements bringing about transformation in the image formed. Researchers state that this may also be owing to the retina. Retina is known for setting off a representation of somewhat dissimilar to be seen. Researchers confirm these as basic reasons of optical illusions.
Seeing is not complete unless the brain perceives the image and corresponds it back to the senses. The brain will take the image through the nerve impulses from the optic nerve and flip it to right side up. This is what we see. We all have an area in the eye known as a blind spot. It is located where the retina touches the optic nerves. Usually the blind spot doesn’t cause any problem. However, at times the blind spot can perceive the image in another way. When the brain and the eye work in coordination, it can also perceive the images as an illusion.
Optical illusions can be of various types. These include, 3 dimensional illusions, distortions, color and shadow, facial illusions and many more.
One of the greatest examples of an optical illusion is a mirage. In this case, the light rays that come from an object are bent and will make it appear at a place that it is not actually present. There is also a marked different between an optical illusion and hallucination. When people start seeing objects at places even the object is physically absent from that place, people are said to be hallucinating.
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