Scientific Explanation of Optical Illusions

Wondering why optical illusions occur? Do you think there is something magical about it? And if you think so, you are partly right! Yes, optical illusions are manifestations of the magical powers of nature! Does there exist a scientific explanation of optical illusions? Yes it does, for no one can deny the science hidden in magic. We cannot deny the powers of nature, but we also cannot ignore the science involved in it. Let us find out why optical illusions occur.

One logical reason for optical illusions is mistaken judgment. An error in the estimation of distance or depth can cause optical illusions. If objects of contrasting colors are placed beside each other, our eyes mistake one color for another. Different colors absorb different amounts of light. This affects the perception of different colored objects by the eyes, leading to optical illusions.

According to the Lipps’ principle of mechanical aesthetic unity, our eyes give every space the form of a living being and unconsciously consider some mechanical forces acting. Wundt suggests that the principles of retinal image formation are a major reason behind the occurrence of optical illusions. When an object reflects the light falling on it, the eye forms an inverted image on the retina. The brain interprets this image to derive meaning out of the object seen. The structure and functioning of the eyes is one of the important causes of optical illusions.

Our eyes can possess abnormalities like astigmatism and eccentricity. Lenses possess defects such as chromatic and spherical aberrations. These phenomena are responsible for optical illusions. Certain neuropsychological diseases can cause optical illusions. Judgments about the direction and distance are not accurate, when our eyes are closed. It is normal for a human eye to perceive vertical distances as greater than horizontal ones of equal magnitudes.

Perhaps, optical illusions occur because we don’t always know what we see, but we tend to see what we know! If you find this confusing, you must read about how optical illusions work.