Why Light on a Surface Looks Dimmer with Intense Light: Explained

[adjacent]

Why does a light cast on a surface look dimmer when a much intense light is cast upon it?

 

[Drakkith]

Can you be a little more specific? Are you talking about the difference in intensity between a light source and the reflected light from a surface, or is there more than 1 light source?

 

[adjacent]

I shined a light on a wall,for example.It looks OK.Then I shined another light on that wall exactly on that place.Now,the previous light looks more dim.Why?

 

[Drakkith]

That's the way your brain works. In some part, it bases the level of contrast off of the darkest and brightest areas in view.

 

[sardar]

This phenomenon is known as simultaneous contrast and it occurs because our eyes and brain automatically adjust to the overall level of light in a given environment. When a surface is illuminated by a bright light, our eyes adjust and become more sensitive to that level of light. Therefore, when a less intense light is cast on the same surface, it appears dimmer in comparison. This is because our eyes are still adjusted to the brighter light and perceive the lower level of light as dimmer. Additionally, the intense light creates a larger contrast between light and dark areas, making the dimmer light appear even dimmer in comparison. This effect is also influenced by the color and reflectivity of the surface, as well as the distance between the two light sources and the surface. Overall, it is a combination of physiological and psychological factors that contribute to the perception of dimmer light on a surface when a much intense light is cast upon it.