If a researcher finds that one drop of perfume diffused through a three-room apartment is the minimum amount of stimuli needed to notice the scent, then this would be a test of one's

• A. just noticeable difference.
• B. sensory receptor.
• C. subliminal stimuli.
• D. absolute threshold.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'absolute threshold': It is the minimum level of stimulus intensity needed for a stimulus to be detected 50% of the time.
2. Identify the scenario: The problem describes a situation where a minimal amount of perfume is needed to notice the scent in a three-room apartment.
3. Relate the scenario to the concept: The scenario is testing the minimum amount of a stimulus (perfume scent) that can be detected, which aligns with the definition of absolute threshold.
4. Differentiate from other concepts: Just noticeable difference refers to the smallest change in stimulus intensity that can be detected, sensory receptor is about the cells that detect stimuli, and subliminal stimuli are below the threshold of conscious perception.
5. Conclude that the scenario is an example of testing the absolute threshold, as it involves detecting the minimum level of a stimulus.