What are the binocular depth cues? How do they help us judge reality?

Short Answer

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Binocular depth cues are visual information from both eyes that help us perceive depth. They include Retinal Disparity, which uses the slight difference in the visual field of each eye due to their separation to judge depth; and Convergence, where the inward turning of eyes to focus on closer objects signals the brain about the object's proximity. These cues help us accurately perceive three-dimensional reality and judge distance, thereby facilitating accurate interaction with our environment.

Step by step solution

01

Define Binocular Depth Cues

Binocular depth cues refer to the visual information taken in by both eyes to give us a perception of depth. They include: Retinal Disparity and Convergence. Retinal Disparity involves the slightly different views each of our eyes have due to their separation, and perspective differences in each eye's image that our brain uses to calculate depth. Convergence refers to the way our eyes move towards each other (converge) when an object gets closer, giving the brain information about depth.
02

Explain How Binocular Depth Cues Aid in Perceiving Reality

Using both Retinal Disparity and Convergence, the brain processes different images from each eye and merges them into one, helping us judge distance and perceive a three-dimensional reality. Retinal disparity adds to our depth perception because the closer an object is, the more difference there is between what each eye sees. This fact helps us accurately judge distance. Convergence, on the other hand, triggers the brain to perceive an object being closer when the eyes start to turn inwards. These cues together enable us to interact accurately with our environment.

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