The fascinating science behind optical illusions and perception

That image is playing tricks on you. It’s a classic optical illusion — and scientists finally understand what’s happening.

Above, you can see two gray bars between the black lines. They sure look different. But nope, they’re the exact same shade. So, why does the gray bar surrounded by black look darker than the gray bar with white on each side?

It’s a phenomenon called “‘simultaneous contrast” 

A new study explains that this kind of optical illusion fools us due to the limitations of our eyes. It’s not your brain failing to grasp anything but rather the actual hardware of your eyeballs.

Can you beat this magic trick? Two-thirds of people pick the same card

Magicians use clever tricks to make you believe in magic. A new study from Goldsmiths University of London pulled back the curtain of mystique on card tricks. Researchers discovered that magic trick psychology comes down to our innate scorn for edges.

Continue reading

How scientists are better understanding dyslexia

Dyslexia has long been associated with difficulty in reading. But, recent research has shown that some people with the condition can solve puzzles and understand optical illusions better. So, why is this and what does it mean for future research on this disorder?

‘Bart Simpson bouncing’ or ‘baptism piracy’ — what do you hear in this auditory illusion?

Puzzles, word games and illusions can help us test and better understand how our minds work. Taking some time out of your day to train your brain can help you relax and find your focus.

Optical illusions have been around forever, and we’re still fascinated by them. The same goes for the myth of unicorns, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Those two ideas come together in an optical illusion that will give your eyes some healthy exercise. Tap or click here and see if you can spot the horse among unicorns.

Continue reading

3 adorable optical illusions that will train your brain and make you say 'Aww!'

Optical illusions are a great way to test your eyes, train your brain and even honor those who are gone. If the last one sounds surprising, wait until you see the adorable corgi-themed brainteaser made for Queen Elizabeth II. It’s one of the most adorable optical illusions the internet offers.

Continue reading

Test your eyes: 99% of people can’t find the hidden words in these tough optical illusions

It’s time to test whether you’re working with an elite brain or not. One of these optical illusions stumps 99% of people, so if you can spot it, you’re in the top 1%. Each hidden word optical illusion is tricky, so prepare for a challenge.

Continue reading

Optical illusion: Spot the hidden second animal and you beat 99% of people

Optical illusions are a great way to test your visual acuity, but they often force you to think in unconventional ways. Then sometimes, your brain and eyes can’t agree on what is in front of them. Take this optical illusion, for example: Upon first glance, you probably won’t be able to spot the hidden second animal.

Continue reading

Can you spot the hidden faces in these 7 optical illusions?

Can you spot the hidden faces in these seven optical illusions?

If you have time for a few brainteasers, it’s your lucky day. We collected seven mind-boggling optical illusions that are full of secret symbols. Find the hidden faces in these tricky images to prove that you’re in the top 1%.

Continue reading

This optical illusion reveals whether you're a loner or a people person

Do you think of yourself as a tough nut to crack? You might be easier to read than you think. After all, an optical illusion can read you like an open book.

Here’s an example. One simple image can tell whether you’re a lone wolf or a lovebird. It can also reveal what motivates you in life.

Continue reading

Can you find the curved line in this optical illusion? It isn’t easy

Think you have an eye for detail and can spot Waldo in a fraction of a second? Tap or click here for four optical illusions that will test your brain. This next image might keep you guessing. This isn’t one of those “what do you see?” quizzes that rely on your first glance to reveal your personality.

Continue reading

What do you see first in this optical illusion? Here's what it says about your personality

Optical illusions are a fun way to see if you truly know yourself. From revealing your inner desires to what you fear most, mashed-up images with bright colors can tell you a few things you might not know.

Do you want to know if you are a confident person or prefer to be left alone? Then take a look at this image. The first object that jumps out at you is your preferred personality type.

Continue reading

Are you quiet or confident? Depends on what you see first in this optical illusion

Nobody knows you better than yourself, and you probably have a pretty good handle on your personality. But deep inside, there might be aspects you aren’t aware of.

You can get insights about yourself by taking a few quizzes or looking at optical illusions. Tap or click here for four optical illusions that will test your brain. While some might call it bogus, what you see in an image can reveal more about your personality than you realize.  

Continue reading

What this optical illusion reveals about your brain

Have you ever wondered what influences your personality? Researchers are always trying to figure out what makes people tick. But while they might be no closer to an answer, one thing is clear: people see and interpret images very differently.

Continue reading

4 optical illusions that will test your brain

Optical illusions are a hoot and a half. They can leave you shocked, startled and even a little existential. The best optical illusions can leave you scratching your head and questioning reality, so we want to share four of the coolest afterimage optical illusions out there.

Continue reading