Participants in Sperling's experiment stared at a screen on which three rows of letters were flashed for just one-twentieth of a second. If Sperling sounded a high-pitched, medium-pitched, or low-pitched tone within _____, the person could recall the letters in the upper, middle, or lower row.
A) one minute
B) 30 seconds
C) three seconds
D) one-third of a second

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The question states that the letters were flashed for just one-twentieth of a second, meaning the presentation of the letters was very brief. Therefore, the tone needed to be presented quickly after the letters disappeared in order for the participant to recall them. One-third of a second is the shortest time interval presented as an option, so it is the best choice.

Participants in Sperling's Experiment Stared at a Screen on Which