Final answer:
A narrower-than-usual airport runway can cause a visual illusion making it appear farther away due to the absence of typical width cues, which can impact a pilot's perception during landing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the perception of distances and sizes, which is a topic of psychology, more specifically, visual perception and illusions. When an airport runway is narrower than usual, it can create a visual illusion affecting the perception of distance. The correct answer is option 'd': It gives a wide range of view. The image appears to be farther than the actual object. This is because a narrower runway lacks the expected width cues that help in judging distance and size. The brain compensates by perceiving the runway as being longer than it actually is, which makes the aircraft seem to be higher and farther away when it is approaching for landing.
Several factors can contribute to this illusion, including environmental conditions and the pilot's experience. For example, less experienced pilots might be more susceptible to visual illusions. Understanding these illusions is crucial for pilot safety as they need to make adjustments to their landing approach to account for the misperception caused by runway width.
Examples of Visual Illusions in Aviation
The narrowing of the runway is an example of what's known in aviation as a "runway width illusion." Another common illusion experienced by pilots is the "upside-down illusion," where a pilot descending over water with no visual horizon believes they are ascending even though they are not. These examples underscore the importance of training and the reliance on instruments during flight operations to counteract misleading visual cues.
In conclusion, the visual illusion caused by a narrower runway is an important phenomenon that aviation professionals need to be aware of to ensure safe flying practices. By understanding how visual illusions can impact perception, pilots can better prepare for these situations and rely on their flight instruments and training to mitigate the risks.