Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Perception of Movement

Stroboscopic motion is also an illusion of apparent motion.  However, unlike the phi phenomenon, stroboscopic motion is created when series of still images are rapidly flashed one after another, so it appears that an object is moving.  Stroboscopic motion is evident in a series of still photos taken of a dancer in different positions.  When quickly shown an image of each individual pose, the dancer appears to be moving. 
http://www.deviantart.com/tag/stroboscopic

Phi Phenomenon

The phi phenomenon explains the illusion of movement that is created when two or more adjacent lights blink on and off in quick succession.  An example of the phi phenomenon in action is the light up Santa and his reindeer that is commonly seen during the holiday season. 

http://cpc.farnell.com/unbranded/li111136/waving-santa-ropelight-86cm/dp/LP06239
Here you can see the outlines of Santa's waving arm. When the lights flash in quick succession, it appears that his arm is moving.