Differentiate Binocular (two eyes) vs Monocular cues.
Explain how Retinal Disparity computes distance.
Observe convergence angle increases as objects approach the face.
Key Concept
Because human eyes are literally ~2.5 inches apart, each retina receives a slightly different 2D image. The brain compares these two images—the greater the difference (disparity), the closer the object must be.
Tags
PsychologyPerceptionVisionBinocular Cues
Left Eye Retina View
Right Eye Retina View
Image DisparityHigh (Close)
Convergence Angle12°
Brain: Stereoscopic 3D Depth Perception (Anaglyph Merge)
Distance of Object from Face 2.0 m
Interpupillary Distance (IPD) 6.5 cm
Retinal Disparity is greatest when an object is very close to your face. If you hold a finger to your nose and blink left/right eyes, the background completely jumps.
Quick Quiz
If you cover one eye, which depth cue do you physically LOSE?