Intensity Perception. II. Resolution in One-Interval Paradigms

Abstract

This paper reports the results of a series of experiments on tone pulses designed to test certain predictions of the preliminary theory of intensity resolution (Durlach and Braida, 1969) relevant to one-interval paradigms. Resolution was measured in identification and scaling experiments as a function of the range, number, and distribution of intensities, and the availability of feedback. Some of the results, such as those on the dependence of resolution on range and number of stimuli in absolute identification, support the theory. Other results, however, such as those comparing resolution in identification with resolution in magnitude estimation for a small common range, indicate that the theory is inadequate and needs to be revised.