Optical Illusions
Purpose
Three illusions demonstrate how the brain constructs 3D perception from 2D images: an anamorphic Rubik's cube, a hidden photograph revealed by rotation, and a hollow-face dragon that appears convex. Highlights the difference between monocular and binocular depth cues.
Figure 1:
Viewed from the correct angle, the distorted photo appears as a real Rubik's cube sitting on the paper.
Figure 2:
From above, the same image reveals its true distorted shape -- a tall, narrow tower rather than a cube.
Figure 3:
In vertical orientation, the image appears as random dark blotches. Rotate 90° counterclockwise and a familiar subject emerges.
Figure 4:
The hollow-face dragon. The head is concave, but viewed monocularly (or through a camera) it appears convex and seems to follow the viewer. Side views reveal the true concave shape.
Equipment
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