According to Weber's law, how are difference thresholds characterized?

Study for the AP Psychology Sensation and Perception Test. Includes multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your AP exam!

Weber's law states that the just noticeable difference (JND) between two stimuli is a constant proportion of the original stimulus, rather than a constant amount. This principle suggests that as the intensity of the original stimulus increases, the amount needed for a person to perceive a difference also increases, but proportionally, not absolutely. For example, if you are lifting a light weight, it may take a small additional weight for you to notice the difference. However, if you are lifting a heavier weight, it may require a larger additional weight to notice a change, but this increase is consistent in relation to the initial weight. This proportional relationship is a key feature of how sensory differences are perceived, adhering to the concept of sensitivity changing with the level of the initial stimuli rather than a fixed numerical threshold.

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