Muller-Lyer Illusion
Definition
The Muller-Lyer illusion is a visual illusion where two lines of the same length appear to be of different lengths because of the orientation of arrow-like ends attached to them.
Analogy
Think about when you're trying to park your car in a tight spot. Even though you know your car will fit (because you've parked in similar spots before), if there are large vehicles on either side, the space might look too small at first glance. That's kind of like the Muller-Lyer illusion - your perception is influenced by surrounding context.
Related terms
Visual Perception: The ability to interpret information from visible light reaching the eyes.
Optical Illusion: An experience of seeming to see something that does not exist or that is other than it appears.
Perceptual Set: A predisposition, or readiness, to perceive something in a particular way based on expectations and assumptions.
"Muller-Lyer Illusion" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.