Final answer:
The difference between absolute threshold and stimulus threshold lies in their definitions and functions. The absolute threshold refers to the minimum amount of stimulus energy that must be present for the stimulus to be detected 50% of the time. On the other hand, the stimulus threshold is a physiological threshold that is reached when a stimulus is strong enough to excite sensory receptors and send nerve impulses to the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between absolute threshold and stimulus threshold lies in their definitions and functions. The absolute threshold refers to the minimum amount of stimulus energy that must be present for the stimulus to be detected 50% of the time. It is the point at which the sensory receptors can detect a stimulus. On the other hand, the stimulus threshold is a physiological threshold that is reached when a stimulus is strong enough to excite sensory receptors and send nerve impulses to the brain.
To provide an example, let's consider a light in a dark room. The absolute threshold would be the minimum amount of light needed for us to detect it, while the stimulus threshold would be reached when the light becomes bright enough to stimulate our sensory receptors and send signals to our brain.
Overall, the absolute threshold focuses on the minimum amount of stimulus energy required for detection, whereas the stimulus threshold refers to the point at which a stimulus is strong enough to excite the sensory receptors and send nerve impulses to the brain.