Why do we see afterimages?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Photoreceptors temporarily fatigued
Brain stores recent images — Wrong. Brain does process images, but afterimages are primarily from photoreceptor fatigue—overstimulated cells sending opposite signals when stimulus removed.
Photoreceptors temporarily fatigued ✓ — Correct! Afterimages occur from photoreceptor fatigue. When you stare at a bright or colored image, specific cone cells become overstimulated and temporarily depleted. When you look away, these fatigued cells respond less than surrounding ones, creating a negative afterimage (often in complementary colors). Like muscles getting tired from overuse!
Eyes reflect previous scenes — Wrong. Eyes don't reflect stored scenes. Afterimages form in the retina—overstimulated photoreceptors create inverted signals when the stimulus is removed.
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