trichromatic theory

one of several concepts of the physiological basis of color vision, as derived from experiments on color mixture in which all hues were able to be matched by a mixture of three primary colors. The Young–Helmholtz theory of color vision is the best known trichromatic theory. Subsequent studies determined that there are three different retinal cone photopigments with peak sensitivities roughly corresponding to the three primary colors of trichromatic theory: blue, green, and red. Also called three-component theory. See also opponent process theory of color vision.

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

measures of intelligence

a series of norm-referenced tests used to determine an individual’s ability to learn, reason, understand concepts, and acquire knowledge. See EEG measures of intelligence; ERP measures of intelligence; fMRI measures of intelligence. See also assessment of intelligence.