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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Visualizing Visual Adaptation
Published on: April 24, 2017
Adaptation minimizes distance-related audiovisual delays
James Heron1, David Whitaker, Paul V McGraw
1Department of Optometry, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK. j.heron2@bradford.ac.uk
Abstract:
A controversial hypothesis within the domain of sensory research is that observers are able to use visual and auditory distance cues to maintain perceptual synchrony--despite the differential velocities of light and sound. Here we show that observers are categorically unable to utilize such distance cues. Nevertheless, given a period of adaptation to the naturally occurring audiovisual asynchrony associated with each viewing distance, a temporal recalibration mechanism helps to perceptually compensate for the effects of distance-induced auditory delays. These effects demonstrate a novel functionality of temporal recalibration with clear ecological benefits.
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