Final answer:
The absolute threshold is the minimum level of stimulus energy required for detection 50% of the time, answered as 'c. minimum; 50 percent.' It helps to measure sensory system sensitivity under controlled conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The absolute threshold is the minimum amount of physical energy required for detection 50% of the time. The correct answer to the question is option 'c. minimum; 50 percent.' The absolute threshold is a term used in sensory processing to describe the smallest intensity of a stimulus that is detectable by the sensory system half of the time under ideal conditions. It's a concept that helps us understand how sensitive our sensory receptors are. For instance, in perfect quiet conditions, our ears can pick up sounds like the ticking of a clock from quite a distance away.
On the other hand, the term difference threshold or just noticeable difference (jnd) refers to the minimum amount of change necessary for a person to notice a difference between two stimuli. This amount varies depending on the stimulus intensity and the conditions under which the comparison is made (e.g., a dark movie theater versus a brightly lit sports arena).