Define Perceptual constancy.

Perceptual Constancy:

Perceptual constancy refers to the ability of the human perceptual system to maintain a stable and unchanging perception of an object's properties despite variations in the sensory input. It allows individuals to perceive objects as constant, regardless of changes in viewing conditions such as lighting, distance, or angle.

There are several types of perceptual constancy:

1. Size Constancy:

   • Size constancy enables individuals to perceive an object as having a consistent size, even when the retinal image of the object changes with variations in distance.

2. Shape Constancy:

   • Shape constancy allows individuals to perceive the shape of an object as consistent, even when viewed from different angles.

3. Color Constancy:

   • Color constancy allows individuals to perceive the color of an object as relatively constant under different lighting conditions. This helps maintain the perception of an object's color even in varying illumination.

4. Brightness Constancy:

   • Brightness constancy allows individuals to perceive an object as having a constant level of brightness, even when the lighting conditions change.

Perceptual constancy is a crucial aspect of visual perception, contributing to the stability and continuity of our experience of the world. It involves the brain's ability to interpret sensory information in a way that maintains a consistent perception of objects despite variations in the sensory input. This phenomenon highlights the sophisticated processing and interpretation capabilities of the human perceptual system.