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Abstract

Very little research has been carried out into how chromatic information affects observer performance in tasks other than detection. As well as being useful in determining further properties of the human visual system, data from such an investigation is of direct application to colour changes produced by atmospheric scattering. This is the principle aim of the present research.

Data is presented to illustrate the likely magnitude of these changes.

A series of experiments were carried out in which a set of targets (Smets patterns) were presented under neutral adaptation conditions and with varying amounts of contrast and purity. Temporal and spatial conditions were designed to produce predominantly sustained or transient responses. The response measure used in the majority of the experiments was reaction time. Results indicated that with low contrast targets colour information can influence thresholds other than detection, but when reaction time is used to test for such effects the results are more ambiguous. A method is also suggested for assessing the contribution made by the chromatic information under low contrast conditions.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	R Medicine > RE Ophthalmology
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences > Department of Optometry & Visual Science School of Health & Medical Sciences > School of Health & Medical Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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