Final answer:
Perception of a visual object differs from the raw retinal image. The brain uses processes like depth perception, size constancy, and color constancy to transform the two-dimensional retinal image into a meaningful and three-dimensional perception of the object.
Step-by-step explanation:
The perception of a visual object differs from the raw retinal image in that the raw retinal image is a two-dimensional representation of the visual field, while perception is the brain's interpretation of that image, taking into account various factors. The brain uses processes such as depth perception, size constancy, and color constancy to transform the raw retinal image into a meaningful and three-dimensional perception of the visual object.
For example, depth perception allows us to perceive the distance and relative positions of objects in the visual field, even though the raw retinal image only provides two-dimensional information. This is achieved through processes such as retinal disparity, where objects at different distances fall on different spots of the two retinae, allowing the brain to extract depth information.
Similarly, size constancy allows us to perceive the size of objects accurately, even when their retinal image size changes due to changes in distance. The brain takes into account the angle subtended by an object on the retina to determine its perceived size. Lastly, color constancy allows us to perceive the consistent color of an object, even under different lighting conditions. The brain compares the color information from different parts of the retina to accurately perceive the color of the object.