Feature Detectors and Dark Adaptation

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to feature detectors in the visual system and the dark adaptation process.

Feature Detectors

Neurons in the visual cortex that respond to specific features of stimuli, such as edges or movement.

Simple cells

Types of feature detectors that respond to oriented lines or edges at specific locations.

Complex cells

Feature detectors that respond to oriented lines moving across the visual field, less specific to position.

Hypercomplex cells

Also known as end-stopped cells, these respond to edges, angles, or the length of lines.

Receptive Fields

The specific area of the retina that influences firing of a ganglion cell.

Center-surround antagonism

The organization of receptive fields where stimulation of the center has an opposite effect to stimulation of the surrounding area.

Hermann Grid Illusion

An optical illusion where intersections look darker due to lateral inhibition.

Dark Adaptation

The process by which eyes become more sensitive when moving from light to dark environments.

Cones

Photoreceptor cells in the retina that adapt quickly to changes in light, becoming less sensitive.

Rods

Photoreceptor cells that adapt slowly to changes in light but are much more sensitive under low light conditions.

Vitamin A deficiency

Condition that impairs rod function, affecting night vision.

Dark adaptation curve

Graphical representation measuring sensitivity changes in vision during the transition from light to dark.