Background Properties (IMAGE) University of Texas at Austin Caption In the picture above, the same horizontal striped pattern has been added to all of the square backgrounds, yet the pattern is much harder to see on the left. These examples demonstrate the three main background properties that affect human ability to see objects: the luminance, the contrast and the similarity of the background to the orientation and shape of the object. Credit Sebastian, S., Abrams, J. & Geisler, W. (June 26, 2017) <i>Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA</i>. Usage Restrictions Permitted use with proper citation. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.