Which concept refers to the minimum intensity required for a stimulus to be detected half the time?

The concept that refers to the minimum intensity required for a stimulus to be detected half the time is known as the absolute threshold. This term specifically defines the smallest amount of physical energy necessary for an individual to notice a stimulus. It is a pivotal concept in sensory psychology, often cited in studies of perception, as it helps to quantify how sensitive our sensory systems are to different types of stimuli.

Understanding absolute threshold is essential, as it not only varies across individuals but can also be influenced by various factors such as the environment, psychological state, and the nature of the stimulus itself. In practical terms, determining the absolute threshold can involve experiments where different intensities of a stimulus are presented to participants, who then report whether they can detect its presence or not.

Other concepts related to perception, such as the difference threshold, which refers to the smallest change in stimulus intensity that can be detected, and sensory adaptation, which describes the decrease in sensitivity to a constant stimulus over time, differ significantly from the notion of absolute threshold and do not directly relate to the question asked.