Define and provide authentic examples of (a) an absolute threshold, (b) a difference threshold, and (c) adaptation.
What will be an ideal response?
Students' examples may vary.
The answer should include the following information:
(a) Absolute threshold: The minimum intensity of a stimulus that must be present for the stimulus to be detected. Example: It is the lightest touch of a feather that we can feel or the faintest sound that we can hear.
(b) Difference threshold: The minimum change in stimulus intensity necessary for a difference in intensity to be detected. Example: When a cup of coffee tastes bitter, we may add just enough sugar to make it taste just noticeably sweeter.
(c) Adaptation: A decrease in the response of a sensory system following prolonged exposure to an unchanging stimulus. Example: A pair of shoes may feel tight or pinch when we first put them on, but we no longer notice the pinching sensation after a while.
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