Gradual Decrease

Definition

Gradual decrease refers to a slow and steady reduction in the intensity or strength of a stimulus over time. It can be observed in various sensory experiences, such as the fading of a smell.

Related terms

Adaptation:

Adaptation is when our senses become less responsive to constant or repeated stimuli. In the context of smell, adaptation explains why we gradually stop perceiving an odor that remains constant.

Sensory adaptation: Sensory adaptation is a specific type of adaptation that occurs when our sensory receptors become less sensitive to prolonged exposure to a stimulus. It helps us focus on new or changing stimuli by filtering out constant ones.

Weber's Law: According to Weber's Law, the just noticeable difference (JND) between two stimuli is proportional to the magnitude of the original stimulus. In terms of gradual decrease in smell intensity, it means that we are more likely to notice changes in odor intensity if it starts from a higher baseline level.