Optical illusions have recently sent the internet into a tizzy, as they get our brain to exercise, and can be the perfect test of our observational skills and keen eye. They are also super fun to solve, and can be the perfect recipe for a bored evening! An optical illusion is actually a visual phenomenon where the brain misinterprets what the eyes perceive. It occurs when the information sent by the eyes conflicts with how the brain processes and understands what it sees. These illusions often trick us into seeing things that are not there, or perceiving objects differently from reality. For example, a still image might appear to move, or two shapes may seem unequal in size even though they are identical.Can you spot the buffalo?At first glance, this looks like a regular pic of a patch of grass, in an arid and dry area, along a country side setting. However, there is a buffalo lurking behind somehere, who has come maybe to graze on the grass. However, the pic is clicked in such a way that it is almost impossible to spot the animal, but are you up for the challenge? However, beware that you have just 5 seconds to do so! Are you ready? Your time starts now!The revealGive up? Here’s the reveal. Look at the centre of the image, and you will see two horns, and there is your buffalo! But don’t worry if you can’t spot it at first go, keep looking and you will get it, we promise!Types of optical illusionsThere are three main types of optical illusions:Literal Illusions: These occur when the brain combines elements of an image to create something that doesn’t exist. For example, an image might look like two faces or a vase depending on how you interpret it.Physiological Illusions: These are caused by overstimulation of the visual system, such as excessive exposure to light, movement, or color. They can create effects like afterimages or motion illusions.Cognitive Illusions: These rely on how the brain subconsciously interprets information. Examples include illusions like the Müller-Lyer illusion, where lines appear longer or shorter due to surrounding shapes.
