Question

Neurons called ______ in the visual cortex analyze the retinal image and respond to aspects of shapes, such as angles and movements. a. subjective contours b. shape-responsive cells c. feature detectors d. horizontal cells

Short answer

The answer is: c. feature detectors

Step-by-step solution

Identify Keywords

Read the statement carefully and identify the keywords or phrases that provide context for understanding the question. Here, keywords include 'neurons,' 'visual cortex,' 'analyze the retinal image,' and 'respond to aspects of shapes, such as angles and movements.'

Analyze Options

Examine each option given for the blank and consider how well it fits with the context provided by the keywords identified in the first step. - a. subjective contours: relates more to perceived shapes than specific neurons. - b. shape-responsive cells: could work, but not a standard term in the context. - c. feature detectors: these are known neurons in the visual cortex that respond to specific features of a visual stimulus. - d. horizontal cells: involved in lateral interaction within the retina, not typically in the cortex.

Select the Best Option

From analyzing the options, note that 'feature detectors' are specialized neurons in the visual cortex responsible for detecting specific features like angles and movement. Therefore, option c is the most appropriate answer.

Key concepts

Visual Cortex

The visual cortex is a crucial part of the brain responsible for processing visual information. When you look at something, light enters your eyes and creates an image on the retina, located at the back of your eye.

This retinal image consists of basic visual stimuli. The visual cortex takes this basic input and transforms it into a coherent perception of the world around you.

• The transformation process allows us to interpret shapes, angles, and movements.
• The visual cortex is located in the occipital lobe of the brain.

Understanding how the visual cortex functions helps us understand how we perceive everything from trivial objects to complex sceneries. It even allows us to engage in activities such as reading and driving.

Feature detectors are present in this area, identifying distinct features of visual stimuli like edges and movements, enabling advanced image processing.

Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the branch of science that examines the nervous system, aiming to understand how it functions and affects our behavior and cognition.

• This field explores the various components of the nervous system like neurons, the brain, and the spinal cord.
• It delves into how neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals. These signals are essential for processing information and enabling responses to external stimuli.

A significant aspect of neuroscience is understanding how specific neurons, like feature detectors in the visual cortex, contribute to processing sensory information.

Neuroscience not only helps us grasp fundamental brain functions but also assists in developing treatments for diseases and in creating technologies like AI that mimic human cognitive processes.

Retinal Image Analysis

Retinal image analysis involves the initial stage of visual processing, where light received by the eyes is converted into a neural signal in the retina. The retina has a layered structure encompassing multiple types of cells, like photoreceptors, that begin the image processing task.

After detecting light, this signal travels through the optic nerve to the visual cortex where further analysis occurs.

• Feature detectors in the visual cortex further interpret this signal to understand complex shapes and patterns.
• The retina and visual cortex work in tandem: the retina serves as the first line "sensors," while the visual cortex acts as an "analyzer" of the detailed visual environment.

Retinal image analysis is fundamental for accurate visual perception and provides essential data for various applications ranging from vision correction to technological innovations like image recognition algorithms.