Certified Animation Professional (CAP) Practice Test

What term describes the technique of creating the illusion of movement through rapid succession of images?

1. Animation

2. Persistence of Vision

3. Frame Blending

4. Chroma Keying

The correct answer is: Persistence of Vision

The technique that describes the illusion of movement through the rapid succession of images is known as Persistence of Vision. This concept is rooted in human perception, where the eye retains an image for a fraction of a second after it has disappeared from view. This phenomenon allows a series of static images to be perceived as continuous motion when presented in quick succession. In animation, this principle is fundamental, as it enables animators to create fluid sequences that appear lifelike. When images are played at a speed exceeding 16 frames per second, the brain blends them into one cohesive motion due to Persistence of Vision. This principle underpins the entire art and technology of animation, allowing viewers to experience dynamic storytelling through sequences of still images. Other choices, while related to aspects of animation production or techniques, do not accurately capture the primary mechanism behind the perception of motion created through rapid image succession.