Abatraet-The tilt aftereffect increases as a logarithmic function of adapting time, reaches saturation after approx 1 hr and decays on a symmetric, logarithmic time-course. This is similar to the time-course of contrast threshold elevation, suggesting that threshold and suprathreshold aftereffects are based on similar type of adaptation processes.
AftereKects Saturation PsychophysicsAn economical theory of spatial aftereffects nussen and Johnsen (1986). The adapting and suggests that the variety of perceptual changes test patterns, shown in a scaled-down representhat result from prolonged inspection of high-tation in inset to Fig. 1, were black lines contrast patterns are based on adaptation in presented on an approx 70cd/m2 background similar or closely analogous mechanisms. Thus with a line/background contrast of approx. 0.9. a common basis might be found for the orienChanges in perceived orientation were measured tation and spatial frequency selective elevation by setting the orientation of a micrometerof contrast thresholds, the reduction of apparcontrolled comparison line C to match a physient contrast of suprathreshold stimuli, and cally vertical test line T, and the tilt aftereffect the shifts in perceived spatial frequency and is the difference between the mean settings beorientation (Braddick et al., 1978). However, fore and after adapting to a 12 deg clockwise discrepancies between aftereffects have been tilted adapting line A. The test pattern was occasionally noted (e.g. Magnussen and Kur-presented in 1.0 set exposures, interleaved with tenback, 1979; Wolfe and Held, 1981; Parker, either 1.5 set blanks (for baseline measurements 1981; Magnussen and Johnsen, 1986), and it has and testing during the decay phase) or 10 set been suggested that threshold and suprareadaptation periods (for testing during the threshold aftereffects have different origins build-up phase). During adaptation the subject (Klein et al., 1974;Parker, 1981; Wolfe and scanned a horizontal fixation bar to avoid after-O'Connell, 1986). The present note reports evi-images. He was comfortably seated with his dence for a unitary mechanism.head supported by a chin-and forehead rest. In a recent experiment (Magnussen and Greenlee, 1985) we measured the growth of the threshold elevation aftereffect well beyond the saturation point during a 3 hr adapting session, and tracked its subsequent decay. We have conducted a similar experiment on the tilt aftereffect, and are now able to compare the time-courses of the complete growth and recovery from continuous adaptation routines for these two aftereffects.The tachistoscopic arrangement for measuring the tilt aftereffect has been described in several previous papers, most recently by Mag_