AP Psychology Practice Test 2026 - Free AP Psychology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Relative clarity is an important depth cue in psychology that refers to how clear or indistinct an object appears in relation to its surroundings. This concept suggests that clarity is linked to perceived distance. When objects are sharp and well-defined, they are interpreted as being closer to the observer. Conversely, when objects appear hazy or less distinct, they are often viewed as being farther away. This phenomenon occurs because atmospheric conditions can affect how we see distant objects; for instance, dust, moisture, and other particulates in the air can create a blurred effect, leading us to interpret the haziness as an indicator of greater distance.

Therefore, the correct choice relates to how hazy objects are perceived as farther away, which aligns with our understanding of relative clarity in visual perception and depth cues. Understanding this principle can be crucial in fields such as art, photography, and even virtual reality, where the manipulation of clarity can significantly alter viewer perception.